London, Dec 15 : Carla Bruni reportedly showed the strain of motherhood as she made her first public appearance since the birth of her daughter Giulia.

Looking effortlessly chic in a casual, beige, fringed poncho and her glossy mane tumbling over her shoulders, the wife of the French president could do little to hide the tired look on her face.

The former model left her daughter at home to join her husband at the annual Christmas party at the Elysee presidential palace.

The French first lady handed gifts to the children at the event and chatted with other guests and dignitaries, the Daily Mail reported.

At one point she seemed to prove more of an attraction than her husband as youngsters and photographers jostled to get near her.

Despite looking tired, Bruni beamed during the event, delighting the young guests as she signed autographs and embraced them while posing for photographers. (ANI)