August 31 marks the 25th anniversary of Princess Diana’s death, and we can’t help but remember the timeless influence she wielded on the zeitgeist, both socially and sartorially.
When she announced her engagement to the heir apparent to the British royal throne, Prince Charles in 1981, she catapulted into an unforeseen level of fame and admiration — and she’s had countless standout style moments through the years. Over time, she garnered the nickname the “People’s Princess” and a reputation as a fashion icon.
Though there is much to be said of the late member of the British royal family’s philanthropic missions, Lady Di’s definitive impact on fashion knows no bounds. There’s also been renewed interest around her regal gowns and inimitable off-duty style thanks to the 2021 film Spencer and the Netflix hit series The Crown.
Embracing the opulence of the 1980s, Lady Di was often seen in bold colors, statement silhouettes, and shoulder pads. From her campy sweaters and her penchant for bike shorts, to her lavish wedding gown and the infamous “Revenge” dress, Diana’s personal style serves as a timeless source of inspiration.
Here, GRAZIA USA is looking back on Princess Diana’s top 10 style moments.
In a cerulean blue suit and pussy bow blouse at her engagement announcement to Prince Charles in 1981
In a kitschy statement sweater on vacation with Prince Charles in Balmoral in 1981
In a Warm and Wonderful ‘Black Sheep’ jumper at a Windsor Polo match in 1981
In a David and Elizabeth Emanuel gown to wed Prince Charles at London’s St. Paul’s Cathedral in 1981
In a Bellville Sassoon gown at the Victoria and Albert Museum in 1981
In a Victor Edelstein gown at the White House with John Travolta in 1985
In Catherine Walker at the Cannes Film Festival in 1987
In a Christina Stambolian design known as ‘The Revenge Dress’ at the Serpentine Gallery in 1994
In a Dior dress at the Met Gala in 1995
In a Virgin Atlantic sweatshirt and bike shorts in London, 1995
