In pictures: Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene light up Monaco’s Rose Ball

In the presence of the Princely Family, the legendary Rose Ball celebrated its 70th anniversary on Saturday 21 March in the Salle des Étoiles, transformed into a spaceship by Christian Louboutin.

The Sporting Monte-Carlo looked quite different on Saturday 21 March, with its illuminated portholes, laser effects and cosmic atmosphere. Transformed into a monochrome spaceship, the Salle des Étoiles hosted the 70th edition of the Rose Ball under the High Patronage of Prince Albert II and the chairmanship of Princess Caroline.

For this anniversary edition, Princess Caroline chose the theme “Galaxy Rose Ball”, entrusting the artistic direction for the fifth consecutive year to fashion designer Christian Louboutin, this time supported by visionary designer Benoît Miniou.

Illuminated portholes, laser effects and a cosmic atmosphere immersed the 800 or so guests in an extraordinary sensory experience.

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Prince Albert II, Princess Charlene, Princess Alexandra of Hanover and Pierre Casiraghi attended this high-profile charity event. Princess Charlène had chosen a sparkling floor-length gown by Elie Saab for the occasion, whilst Princess Caroline wore a silver Chanel blazer.

Pierre Casiraghi was accompanied by his wife Beatrice Borromeo, who wore a sculptural black dress by Christian Dior. Princess Alexandra of Hanover, for her part, had opted for a blue dress by Prada, accompanied by her partner Ben-Sylvester Strautmann. Grand Duke George Mikhailovich of Russia and Princess Victoria Romanovna were also among the distinguished guests at the evening’s event.

Archive images of early Bal de la Rose editions

An imperial guest

The Princely Family also welcomed a special guest, Princess Akiko of Mikasa, cousin of Emperor Naruhito of Japan, who was in the Principality as part of the celebrations marking the 20th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Monaco and Japan.

As every year, the evening featured the traditional raffle hosted by Stephane Bern, with all proceeds going to the Princess Grace Foundation to support children in hospital.