Having been recognisable by her chic blonde pixie cut, Princess Charlene of Monaco has been growing out her hair since 2025. But in 2023, royal fans may remember that the wife of Prince Albert went through a brunette phase – and accentuated her darker hair for a special night out.
The Zimbabwean-born royal, 48, who has been keeping a relatively low profile since the Ceremony Of The Sainte-Devote celebrations in January, stepped out for a gala dinner for the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco and looked epic in Valentino. Her gown featured an asymmetrical neckline with one sleeve and came in block black and white.
Princess Charlene commands attention
© Getty ImagesHer hair equally commanded attention, the short length and dark colour creating a striking finish. Paired with peep-toe heels and diamond jewellery, the look highlighted her status as the epitome of F1 glamour.
© Getty"Over the years, we've seen her embrace bold colours, from striking reds to elegant whites, and in this case, she opted for a dramatic black-and-white Valentino maxi dress that felt both timeless and contemporary," fashion stylist Leanne Jones tells us.
Allowing the dress to do the talking
© WireImage"The look was maximalist in design, which meant everything else was kept deliberately minimal – even the hair – allowing the architecture of the dress to do the talking," Leanne says.
"The asymmetric neckline is particularly flattering and one I’d recommend ladies consider this summer. It's a powerful design choice, especially for Charlene, who has quite a strong, athletic frame, and asymmetric cuts soften the shoulder line by breaking it up visually."
© Getty ImageStyling her look around her haircut is one of Charlene's greatest strengths, and her collection of asymmetrical garments speaks to how well they suited her cropped do.
Charlene's collection of asymmetrical looks
© GettyAmong the fashion stylist's top picks are Charlene's fitted lace look from 2024. She went full Greek goddess with a caped jumpsuit in 2024 at the 63rd Monte-Carlo Television Festival. The Elie Saab garment with flared legs featured soft lace cutouts that complemented her more feminine ear-grazing curls.
© Getty ImagesMeanwhile, the royal went for a similar aesthetic at the 2025 Rose Ball as she dazzled in a black and green lace number by Dolce & Gabbana with a waist-cinching satin belt.
