When you think of Princess Diana, the first things that probably come to mind are her dazzling smiles, her humanitarian efforts, and of course, her impeccable fashion sense. Ah, the fashionista who redefined royal style! Trust me, even in this modern 2024, we’re still gushing over her iconic outfits like it was yesterday.
Princess Diana's fashion wasn't just about clothes; it was about statements. Whether stepping out in regal gowns or rocking casual ensembles, she always knew how to turn heads. Let’s start with one of my fave Diana moments—the blue velvet gown. Remember that midnight blue stunner she wore while dancing with John Travolta at the White House? Talk about living a fairytale! Oh, and let’s not forget the infamous "Revenge Dress" that screamed independence and confidence louder than a megaphone in Times Square.
Was it just me, or did she also manage to blend classic style with contemporary flair effortlessly? In "Casual Elegance", you’ll see Diana making casual look chic way before it was a trend. If you’re still struggling with casual Fridays at work, you might just want to take a leaf out of her style book.
Another reason why her looks have such a lasting impact is because they catered to a wide spectrum of fashion lovers. For those who love gowns and glitter, Diana offered you plenty to drool over. For the folks who like a casual look, she showed you how to look stunning in a simple blouse and jeans.
Now, don’t even get me started on her accessories. The woman had an eye for detail that was almost supernatural. We'll get more into this in the "Jewelry and Accessories" section where her sparkling tiaras and elegant necklaces get the spotlight they so deserve. Remember the time she paired her tiara with a casual blazer? Just genius!
In today's world, fashion influencers come and go, but Diana’s style stays eternally youthful. If you scroll Reddit or Instagram, you’ll find numerous fan accounts and fashion blogs dedicated to breaking down every single one of her looks. Talk about timeless appeal!
We'll walk through some of her most memorable fashion moments, each one better than the last! So sit tight and prepare yourself for a delightful trip down memory lane, or should I say, down Diana’s dazzling wardrobe. From her stunning evening gowns to her relaxed casual wear, we’ll be covering it all. Let’s dive in and revel in the magnificence that was Princess Diana’s style. Ready? Let’s go!
1. Di at the Races
Wearing a beautiful dove-grey coat over a white linen shift by Catherine Walker, Princess Diana wowed them at Ascot Racecourse. A white hat by Philip Somerville completed the outfit. This dress and coat ensemble is one of Princess Diana’s best looks and a great example of why she was always at the top of the best dressed list.
2. White Asymmetric Gown by Hachi
Diana looked smashing in this Hachi gown covered in silver bugle beads that she wore to the premiere of Octopussy, the new James Bond film, in June of 1983. She’s carrying a slim silver clutch and wearing matching silver heels. This is such a flattering look that shows off her great collarbone and toned arm. This is a great representation of fancy dress in the '80s.
3. Polka-Dot Curve Appeal
This was an unusually close fitting daytime dress for Diana, but it hugged her body in all the right places and looked sensational. You can’t really see it in this photo, but starting directly under the bust plus the entire waistline is all ruched. Diana had scads of polka-dot dresses, as it was one of her favorite patterns. Mine too!
4. Striped Coat Dress by Catherine Walker
This is a fierce look on the Princess. A very becoming hat by Kangol tops this double-breasted pinstripe coat dress by one of her favorite designers. Diana wore this at a naval base during the 1985 Royal Tour of Italy.
5. The Elvis Dress
Due to the stand-up collar, this was referred to as The Elvis Dress. Catherine Walker designed this white silk strapless dress encrusted in pearls and sequins, with a matching bolero jacket. I imagine it might have been quite heavy. The Franklin Mint purchased it at a charity auction at Christie’s.
6. Dynasty Dress
Reminiscent of dresses worn by the ladies on the Dynasty TV show, this shimmering silver pleated gown by Bruce Oldfield also had an exposed back. Diana was partial to silver and it was a very good color for her. Diana wore this only once, to a charity fashion show in 1985.
7. Viva Versace
Diana looks incredibly contemporary in this white sheath dress by Gianni Versace circa 1995. She was very fit and looked terrific in clothes that showed off her collarbones, toned arms and great legs. Her hair is just a tad longer in this photo and it suited her. I loved Diana’s royal looks, such as coat dresses and all of her stunning hats, but she also looked fabulous in modern dresses like this one. It makes you wonder how her style would have evolved in the years to come.
What great style Princess Diana had, and really, when you think about it, who were her role models? Grace Kelly? Jackie O? Certainly nobody in the royal family was a clothes horse. Fortunately, Kate Middleton has Diana’s good fashion sense. What is your favorite Princess Diana look?
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