May 15, 1987, is a date that stands out in the annals of the Cannes Film Festival. Celebrating its 40th year, the festival saw the arrival of two very distinguished guests, far removed from the world of cinema: Prince Charles, then 38, and Princess Diana, 25. The Prince and Princess of Wales took Cannes by storm, creating a buzz unlike any other. From the moment they arrived in the early afternoon, the Croisette was in turmoil.
The Royal Red Carpet Moment
Charles and Diana began their remarkable day by walking their first red carpet at the Cannes town hall. Mayor Anne-Marie Dupuy personally welcomed them. The couple made a brief appearance on the balcony, delighting the large crowd and photographers. Their day continued with a visit to the film market and a press conference, where Diana received a replica of the Palme d’Or from François Léotard, the Minister of Culture. The cherry on top was Charles delivering a short speech—in French, no less!
A Glamorous Evening
The day’s festivities didn’t end there. The royal couple capped off their whirlwind day with the famous staircase climb to attend the screening of “The Whales of August,” directed by Lindsay Anderson, shown out of competition. Diana, with her characteristic elegance, dazzled in a strapless sky-blue silk chiffon dress designed by her trusted stylist Catherine Walker. The dress, complete with a scarf creating a train, baby blue pumps, and aquamarine and diamond jewelry, was an undeniable tribute to another beloved princess, Grace Kelly.
Grace Kelly, Cary Grant
To Catch A Thief – 1955
Grace Kelly’s Inspiration
Catherine Walker drew inspiration from Grace Kelly’s character, Frances Stevens, in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1955 film “To Catch a Thief.” Grace Kelly herself became a princess in Monaco a year after the film’s release. This homage was a fitting choice, blending cinema, royalty, and timeless fashion.
Diana’s Iconic Dress: A Journey through Time
So, what happened to Diana’s mesmerizing dress? She was once again photographed in it by Terence Donovan and wore it a second time in September 1989 at a performance of “Miss Saigon” at the Theatre Royal in London. The dress was auctioned by Julien’s Auction House in Los Angeles in 2011, fetching $137,500. The proceeds were generously donated to a children’s charity, reflecting Diana’s enduring legacy as the “Princess of Hearts.” From 2017 to 2019, the dress was featured in the “Diana: Her Fashion Story” exhibition at Kensington Palace.
A Lasting Legacy
May 15, 1987, remains an iconic day at the Cannes Film Festival, thanks to the unforgettable presence of Charles and Diana. Their visit not only added a regal touch but also left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. Diana’s style, grace, and philanthropic spirit continue to resonate, reminding us of her enduring legacy.
Princess Diana
‘Miss Saigon’ at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, London, Britain – 1989
**Festival de Cannes : retour en images sur le jour où Diana a enflammé la Croisette**
This article first appeared on grazia.fr – Author: Jordane Guignon
