A glimpse at Princess Diana's iconic fashion moments
When we look back at the wonderful and rebellious legacy of Princess Diana, one thing that firmly stands out is her sense of style and fashion. Besides being one of the most daring royals of all times, she also stunned the world with her bold and gritty outfits that not only expressed her courage and resolve, but also proved her as a person who was way ahead of her times.
From her traditional gowns to her infamous “Revenge Dress”, Princess Diana was a fashion icon we still look up to for inspiration. While she may have left the world too soon, her unconventional style and approach to glamour is something that has paved the way for modern fashion and couture.
That being said, here are 10 iconic times Princess Diana spoke through her fashion choices.
Photo: Getty images
Princess Diana’s wedding gown
In 1981, on her wedding day, Princess Diana amazed the world with her pearl embroidered David and Elizabeth Emanuel wedding gown featuring a 25-foot-long train, which is iconic in royal-wedding history. Not only was it daring on her part to wear it on such a big occasion, it also depicted her enthusiasm in the field of fashion.
Photo: Getty images
The Travolta Dress
While many would recognize it as the midnight blue velvet dress by Victor Edelstein, the “Travolta Dress” is what it is popularly known as. During her attendance at a Gala dinner at the White House in 1985, Princess Diana flaunted the beautiful off-shoulder dress and danced with “Grease” actor John Travolta.
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When Diana rocked a tuxedo
In 1984, when Princess Diana attended a Genesis concert at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, she wore a Margaret Howell designed black-and-white tuxedo-style suit to grace the event. Besides looking beautiful and elegant, it was also the beginning a tradition of gender-neutral outfits in the royal household. Following her footsteps is Meghan Markle, who also arrived at an event in a black tuxedo dress designed by Judith & Charles.
Photo: Redcat Photography
Princess Diana’s necklace-as-headband moment
In terms of making iconic style statements, not only did the Princess experiment with her outfits, but she also repurposed her jewellery in many ways. That being said, in 1985, when Princess Diana attended a formal event at Australia with Prince Charles, she wore an emerald and diamond choker – which she had borrowed from Queen Elizabeth II – as a headpiece. This, although not intentional, did become the talk of the town.
Photo: Getty images
The Revenge Dress
On the day, Princess Diana’s husband, Prince Charles, admitted to his secret affair with Camilla Parker Bowles on national television, Diana was seen at the Serpentine Gallery wearing an unconventional yet bold black off-shoulder dress designed by Christina Stambolian. Reportedly, Diana was to wear a Valentino dress for the event, however, after her husband’s revelation, she chose to go with what’s now called the “The Revenge Dress”, which had been in her closet for over three years.
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Her showstopper gown at the Cannes Film Festival
Created by one of her favourite designers, Catherine Walker, Diana wore this pale blue silk chiffon strapless dress to the Cannes Film Festival in 1987, looking absolutely elegant and mesmerizing. Considered as one of the best looks at the Cannes Festival, the dress perfectly complimented Princess Diana’s beauty and sophistication.
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The popular Catherine Walker Dress a.k.a. “The Elvis Dress”
Another one from Catherine Walker collection is Princess Diana’s popular “Elvis Dress”, which she wore in 1989. Studded with pearls and sequins and a raised collar (The likes of which only Elvis would wear), the white silk dress is currently at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
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Princess Di’s famous “Virgin Atlantic” sweatshirt look
Besides turning up in graceful and elegant gowns and dresses, the Princess was also a street-style trendsetter. Her 1995 casual look featuring a “Virgin Atlantic” sweatshirt with bright-orange bike shorts and sneakers, is still an inspired look for today’s millennial. That being said, the sweatshirt was reportedly auctioned off in July 2019 for a whopping $53,532.
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Princess Diana’s “Cleavage bags” were some of her most essential accessories
Although Diana was a rebellious woman and did not mind breaking protocols, she also knew varied ways to protect her modesty from press photographers and paparazzi. Being the most photographed woman in the world, every time she wore a low-cut or plunging neckline dress, she exited her vehicle placing her clutch over her chest.
Photo: Getty images
Her electric Blue Versace Dress
In 1996, Princess Diana, during her Australian tour, attended the Victor Chang Institute Royal Ball as the guest of honour, where she wore an electric blue one-shouldered gown by Versace. One of the most iconic looks of Princess Diana, not only did she ace the look, but she also wore it for a good cause.
Photo: Getty images
- By Tenzin Chodon