Princess Grace, Cartier Honored by Walk of Style

BEVERLY HILLS — Princess Grace of Monaco and Cartier were honored here Thursday night with the Rodeo Drive Walk of Style Award, which recognizes style legends for their contributions to fashion and entertainment.

The late princess and Cartier were the 14th and 15th honorees. Previous recipients include Gianni and Donatella Versace, Valentino, Giorgio Armani, Tom Ford, Mario Testino and Manolo Blahnik.

The 162-year-old French jewelry brand, the first fine jeweler to receive the award, and the princess have been linked since 1956, when Prince Rainier III of Monaco gave the former Grace Kelly a 10.47-carat diamond engagement ring from Cartier, which she wore in her last movie, “High Society.” In addition, Cartier has a history as the jeweler to 19 royal houses.

Prince Albert II of Monaco accepted the award on his mother’s behalf.

“All my life I’ve heard my mother referred to as an icon of style, and what does that really mean? If it’s defined by an unmatchable combination of beauty, style and elegance, then I think my mother fits that description incredibly well,” he said. “Since December of 1955, when Women’s Wear Daily ran a feature on the Grace Kelly look, her image was everywhere.”

Pierre Rainero, Cartier’s director of image, style and heritage, said, “For us, preoccupation with style is at the center of our work. When we do create something, you should immediately recognize it as Cartier, and at the same time are surprised.”

Debra Messing presented the honor to Prince Albert, and Demi Moore, in Zac Posen and Cartier, gave the award to the jeweler.

“She’s an icon, this is so fitting for her and so well deserved,” said Messing, who had a Kelly-esque updo and wore a black Bill Blass dress, Cartier jewelry and Brian Atwood shoes. “You can’t think of fashion as we know it without thinking of Princess Grace. She really defined a whole era.”