The star of the show at the 58th Red Cross Ball in Monte Carlo was undoubtedly Charlene Wittstock, the elegant sports star who has captured the heart of the principality's ruler Prince Albert.

Showing off her princess-in-waiting credentials, the South African swimmer turned on the glamour in a lacy jade-coloured evening gown, split to the thigh to reveal a length of shapely leg. Her blonde locks had been arranged in a chignon to finish off the look.

As was the case last year - the first occasion Albert hosted the event as sovereign - the Monegasque royal arrived at the principality's chic Sporting Club flanked by his sisters Caroline and Stephanie. After making her entrance behind the royal siblings, with the rest of the family, 28-year-old Charlene was seated opposite the prince, to whom she's been linked since their public display of affection at the Winter Olympics in Turin.

Find out more about Prince Albert of Monaco's girlfriend at hellomagazine.com.