Monaco's Royal Family has become the first to release their 2024 Christmas card, showcasing a notably relaxed and intimate portrait that marks a striking departure from their traditionally formal imagery.
Prince Albert, Princess Charlene, and their nine-year-old twins Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella appear in cosy winter jumpers, posing in their Palace living room.
The casual family snapshot, shared on the Princier Palace's official Instagram account, garnered over 12,000 likes and hundreds of enthusiastic comments within 24 hours of its release.
The intimate portrait shows the family gathered in front of a stone fireplace adorned with festive greenery and lit candles in one of the Princier Palace's living rooms.
Princess Charlene and Prince Albert put on united front as family Christmas card issued
Getty
Princess Charlene, 46, exuded elegance in straight-leg brown trousers paired with a mocha-hued knitted jumper and brown leather boots.
Prince Albert, 66, appeared relaxed in a cream cable knit jumper and brown check shirt, standing behind his family.
The twins coordinated in neutral tones, with Princess Gabriella wearing a cream knit ensemble and metallic ballet shoes, whilst Prince Jacques sported a beige jumper with black trousers and brown suede shoes.
A beautifully decorated Christmas tree completed the festive scene.
Princess Charlene and Prince Albert posing for their casual Christmas card beside Jacques and Gabriella
Éric Mathon / Palais princier
The casual portrait stood in stark contrast to the family's 2023 Christmas card, where formality took centre stage.
Last year's image featured Prince Albert and Prince Jacques in matching tuxedos, while Princess Gabriella wore a burgundy velvet dress and Princess Charlene donned an off-the-shoulder gown.
The shift from formal attire to comfortable winter wear reflected a more intimate glimpse into the Monegasque Royal Family's life.
The Palace's Instagram caption read: "The Princier Palace is pleased to share with you the photo of the greeting card of the Princier family."
Princess Charlene and Prince Albert married in 2011PAThe festive portrait was captured by Éric Mathon, the Monegasque royals' official photographer, who also took their Christmas card photo last year.
Princess Charlene's knitted jumper is from Ralph Lauren, marking a departure from her usual high-end designer ensembles.
The image resonated with royal watchers worldwide, with one fan commenting: "Beautiful family photo. The choice of clothes. The kids are so big and beautiful!"
Another admirer wrote: "Aww.. so beautiful. All best regards and very best wishes for lovely days before Christmas. Yours abundantly, me, my twins and my family in Norway!"
Prince Albert started dating Charlene, originally from South Africa but born in Zimbabwe, in 2006
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The Monegasque Royal Family has already embraced the festive season, attending Monaco's Christmas illuminations on Saturday, November 30. The family visited Place du Casino to admire an 18-metre-high tree and five giant animated Christmas balls.
The celebrations come ahead of a milestone for the twins, who turn 10 on December 10.
Princess Charlene recently shared insights about her children with Gala Magazine, noting their distinct personalities.
"Gabriella is very curious... She asks lots of questions and demands a lot of attention," the princess revealed. "As for Jacques, he is curious and observant," she added. "More reserved, he is naturally very calm."
