The year is off to a good start for Mathilde from Belgium. The wife of King Philippe has just concluded a week-long stay in Switzerland, in Davos, where she attended with her husband the events of the World Economic Forum. Back in Belgium, the Queen is preparing to celebrate the day of her birth, this January 20, 2024. Now aged 51, the sovereign adds a new candle to her cake, which she will no doubt breathe discreetly with her family within the walls of her home. But that didn’t stop the Royal Palace to wish him a happy birthdayand to share on Instagram on this occasion two previously unpublished photos of the Queen of the Belgians. Taken by Vlad Vanderkelen at Laeken Castle, these two photos show Mathilde from Belgium relaxed.
These photos were taken during a walk on the royal estate of Laeken, explains Vanitas. The first presents the Queen leaning against a tree, wearing a faux suede vest from Baleno, a white knitted sweater and brown corduroy pants. On the second, Mathilde from Belgium is standing, smiling, with her dog Jeep, a white westie, enjoying the great outdoors. These new official portraits are in addition to those already unveiled for the sovereign’s 50th birthday. Two portraits were then published on Instagram, in addition to three posts retracing the life of Gabriel’s mother, Élisabeth, Éléonore and Emmanuel.
A Queen who lives with the times
Very appreciated in his country, Mathilde of Belgium is a sovereign who knew how to evolve with the times. Speech therapist before marrying Philippe and wearing the crown, the sovereign remained simple despite her years spent within royalty. Thus, she is often seen wearing old outfits, and apparently rarely making new acquisitions for her wardrobe. A simplicity motivated by the desire to be closer to its subjects: “In these times of economic turbulence, the Queen considers it appropriate to wear her clothes more often“, explained fashion journalist Jelka Van Duyse for the Belgian daily Het Laatste Nieuws.
Article written in collaboration with 6Médias.
Photo credits: Photonews / Bestimage