BELLES OF THE BALL

Watched by proud mother Gwyneth Paltrow, Apple Martin is among the dazzling young women-making their entrance to society at Paris's 'glittering debutantes, ball

- GEORGIA BROWN

A highlight of the social calendar, Le Bal des Débutantes celebrates accomplished young women from noteworthy families at a glittering annual event held in Paris. And as it is such an honour to be invited, the guest list is a carefully selected affair.

So, among the radiant group of debutantes – or debs – arriving at the fivestar Shangri-La hotel in the French capital last week were the daughters and granddaughters of Hollywood stars, rock gods and royalty.

One of the most notable was Apple Martin, who stepped into the limelight with as much poise as her famous parents, Coldplay frontman Chris Martin and A-list actress Gwyneth Paltrow.

Also making her debut was Lucia Ponti, the granddaughter of Italian film icon Sophia Loren.

KEEPING TRADITION ALIVE

Debutante balls historically served as a formal introduction of young women to society and to signal their readiness for marriage. Over the years, Le Bal, organised by Ophélie Renouard, has redefined the concept for the 21st century.

These days, young women aged 17 to 21 are chosen from around the world to celebrate tradition, philanthropy and high fashion, all while raising funds for charity.

Apple, 20, was selected as an honorary debutante, following in the footsteps of Ava Phillippe – the daughter of former Hollywood couple Reese Witherspoon and Ryan Phillippe – and Emily in Paris star Lily Collins before her.

Chris and Gwyneth were every inch the proud parents as they reunited in Paris to watch their elder child make her debut.

Apple looked breathtaking in a custommade haute couture dress that took more than 700 hours to make and was created for her by Valentino’s creative director Alessandro Michele.