I liked Princess Stephanie's dress. The print pattern looked like the flower bouquet that she was holding.
Indeed Pricess Caroline not attending is a shame because she always bring a touch of class at the event. I've noticed that Charlene's been offered a bouquet this time, usually not so maybe it's a step to the officialisation of her relationship with Prince Albert and Princess Caroline wanted to let Charlene be the star of this year(My own opinion though)It is a tad worrisome that Princess Caroline was not there (and I'm sure many photographers cried over the absence of Charlotte) to keep a regal eye on her younger siblings but I'm sure whatever kept her away was pressing. I thought Princess Stephanie looked great and her and Albert II always seem to light up whenever they are around each other. I think the theme was very nice, Gloria Estefan was great, and no it might not be what it used to be but I think that reflects on those who chose to stop coming rather than the Grimaldis. At the end of the day the "mission" of the ball was accomplished, money was raised for the Red Cross and no matter who or how high-profile were those who provided it, it will help alot of people around the world and God bless the Grimaldis for doing this every year. Everyone wins.
Indeed Pricess Caroline not attending is a shame because she always bring a touch of class at the event. I've noticed that Charlene's been offered a bouquet this time, usually not so maybe it's a step to the officialisation of her relationship with Prince Albert and Princess Caroline wanted to let Charlene be the star of this year(My own opinion though)
I wouldn't read too much into Charlene getting a bouquet. With Caroline absent and only Stephanie there it would have been rude not to have given Charlene a bouquet. Notice as mentioned above the arrangement was done to compliment Stephanie's dress.
What about all the other RCB's wear the princesses's was offered bouquets and Charlene was not offered one. I don't think the Elisabeth (cousin) is offered a bouquet when she attends.
It alwas seemed to me that the princess consort or the princess of the blood recieves these honors