Princess Estelle of Sweden celebrated her 13th birthday on February 23, 2025, with the release of new official portraits by the Royal House of Sweden. The images reflect this significant milestone, showcasing the future queen stepping firmly from childhood to adolescence.
Born on February 23, 2012, Estelle is the daughter of Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel, and she currently holds the second position in the line of succession to the Swedish throne, following her mother. On this important day, the Palace shared formal photographs taken at the Royal Palace of Stockholm, moving away from more casual birthday portraits seen in the past.
This year’s portraits mark Estelle's growing stature within the royal family and the public eye. Draped elegantly against the backdrop of the palace, the young princess posed with seriousness, demonstrating her readiness for her future role as queen. She wore a light gray sweater and skirt, complemented by subtle jewelry, and displayed a polished hairstyle—a notable shift from her simpler, childlike looks. One of the photos features her with just the hint of a smile, reminding us she is still very much a young girl at heart.
The official photos were captured by photographer Kate Gabor, who has been responsible for many significant milestones for the princess, including her first portrait at birth. This familial relationship behind the lens contributes to the poignancy of Estelle's transition as she begins to take on more royal responsibilities. The Royal House, through its social media platforms, expressed, "Happy 13th birthday to Princess Estelle," along with imagery of the celebrations.
Traditionally, royal birthday portraits have been relaxed, but Estelle’s latest images reflect her serious ascent toward her anticipated role, combined with the graceful composure expected of future royalty. She also has continued to engage with royal duties alongside her family, gradually stepping up to represent the Crown at various events.
Currently, Princess Estelle attends Campus Manilla, a private school on the island of Djurgården, Stockholm, ensuring she follows her educational path as she steps nearer to royal obligations. Balancing her schooling with growing involvement in royal initiatives, Estelle is involved with her namesake foundation focused on promoting the arts, which was established by her parents. This foundation helps fund art installations for public parks, injecting her artistic vision with tangible contributions.
By stepping boldly as she matures, Princess Estelle gives the impression of someone comfortable within her future role. While she continues to navigate her education as any typical adolescent would, she also dons the mantle of responsibility with the grace expected of royals. From school life to royal engagements, Estelle smoothly imbibes the duality of being both bride and future leader.
For Estelle’s family, this birthday is also reflective of royal traditions, dating back to her birth when proud parents and dignitaries announced her name, Estelle Silvia Ewa Mary. With each passing year, the recognition of her identity deepens, birthing her public persona as she carves her niche within the modern monarchy.
On this day, as she celebrates her birthday, Princess Estelle is poised on the brink of her transformation from child to future monarch, embodying tradition and the contemporary outlook of the Swedish royal family.