Bertrand of Orléans-Braganza

Bertrand of Orléans-Braganza, also known as “the Duke of Dapper”, was a member of the Brazilian imperial family and a self-proclaimed fashion icon.

Born in Rio de Janeiro in 1941, Bertrand was the son of Prince Pedro Henrique of Orléans-Braganza and his wife Princess Maria Elisabeth of Bavaria. From a young age, Bertrand showed an interest in fashion, often dressing up in his mother’s clothes and experimenting with new hairstyles.

As he grew older, Bertrand’s passion for fashion only intensified. In the 1960s, he moved to Paris to study design and worked for several top fashion houses, including Dior and Givenchy.

In 1968, Bertrand made his big break when he designed the wedding gown for Princess Sophia of Greece and Denmark. The elegant and modern dress was a huge success and cemented Bertrand’s reputation as a rising star in the fashion world.

However, Bertrand was not content with just designing stunning dresses. He also wanted to be a fashion icon himself. With his dashing good looks and impeccable taste, Bertrand quickly became a fixture on the Parisian social scene.

His signature style included bold colors, daring patterns, and a love of accessories. Bertrand was often seen wearing oversized sunglasses, fur coats, and wide-brimmed hats. His outfits were so eye-catching that they often overshadowed the events he attended.

Bertrand’s love of fashion even extended to his personal life. When he married Brazilian socialite Silvia Amélia de Waldner in 1974, he made headlines with his unconventional wedding attire. Instead of a traditional tuxedo, Bertrand wore a hot pink suit, complete with a matching top hat and cane.

Despite his flamboyant style, Bertrand was respected in the fashion industry for his talent and creativity. His designs were praised for their elegance, simplicity, and modernity.

Throughout his life, Bertrand remained devoted to his craft, always pushing the boundaries of what was possible in fashion. He passed away in 2007, but his legacy as a true icon of style lives on.

In conclusion, Bertrand of Orléans-Braganza was not just a member of a royal family, but a true fashion icon who left an indelible mark on the world of fashion. He was a Duke of Dapper, and his style will forever be an inspiration in the fashion world.