Innately tied to her legacy is Princess Diana's era-defying fashion sense, which evolved as she grew into her role as as a beloved public figure. Here, a look back at 75 of her chicest outfits.
1988
BBTB. (Bring Back the Bolero. Please sign my petition.)
1989
Not what you expected, eh? That's what makes it so great and modern, as the celebrity-off-duty look in beta. Or alpha.
1992
Not an ad for Yves Saint Laurent, but very well could be.
1987
Another wonderful evening option, this one with an off-the-shoulder neckline and yards of pink satin.
1988
But our very favorites might be the ones in simpler silhouettes, which she tended to favor later.
1985
Though velvet is never a bad idea.
1981
See—more velvet. (Bruce Oldfield ain't bad either.)
1987
Wowza.
1983
How is this real?
1991
Regal. Statuesque.
1983
Versus an interesting juxtaposition—even just in her sartorial choices, she grew so much in a few years.
1981
The original end-of-the-night, into-the-car pap shot.
1983
Even in costume—at a Canadian barbecue, no less—she looked like a queen.
1983
The sheerness makes this feel really fresh.
1991
BBTH. (Bring Back the Halter. Sign my other petition.)
1986
So '80s, kind of frivolous, but still marvelous.
1986
Love a drop waist.
1989
It might not be your first guess, but red was definitely one of Princess Di's best colors.
1994
If it isn't there already, this fire Christina Stambolian number will live in the "fashion" section of your brain forever. Phew.
1995
Raise your hand if you're having an extremely rough time deciding whether '80s or '90s Diana is the best.
1985
This COLOR.
1989
Sequins by Catherine Walker.
1983
Nice color, nicer accessorizing.
1997
I love this period in her style. Too chic.
1985
Ideas in styling: Wearing a necklace as a headband and a massive bow on your shoulder.
1981
Before it all began.
1997
Versus near the too-soon end.
1996
Top 10, for sure.
1985
And now, let us admire some headwear, starting with schooner of a hat.
1983
And this jaunty, feathery chapeau.
1985
This confection is by Murray Arbeid; the crown is by the monarchy.
1981How could we not include her wedding gown, with its tremendous train?
How could we not include her wedding gown, with its tremendous train?
1989
Few women could pull off powder blue hip pads, but somehow, she does.
1984
The event might've been boring, but the dress is not.
1996
She could've only worn halter-neck dresses in different colors and fabrics, and we still would've made this gallery.
1982
A maternity gown straight out of Dangerous Liaisons.
1982
And the baby himself, welcomed in pink.
1989
Ah, the "Elvis dress," designed by Catherine Walker.
1989
Another Catherine Walker creation with ultra-flattering ruching at the waist.
1984
Somebody has to have made this into a poster, right?
1989
Romantic florals for a performance of Romeo and Juliet.
1990
Sharpen up that resolution, and this photo could be from yesterday.
1986
Wearing Catherine Walker on a visit to Saudi Arabia.
1986
Zandra Rhodes. Trompe l'oeil. Gold.
1991
"Epic" and "paisley," two words you never really see together.
1987
The best of '80s campiness.
1997
Star power—and her secret "cleavage bags"—in action.
1995
See what we mean about red?
1982
The power of the print.
1985
Goodbye (from Nancy Reagan too). And thank you.
1986
Pretty in pink.
1985
Great outfit, for the polo match. A sailor top with a floral skirt.
1989
An unforgettable color-block moment by Catherine Walker.
1996
Lady D attended the Met Ball in her iconic choker and slip-like dress.
1989
An on point neutral look.
1989
A white and pink dress by Catherine Walker for the performance of "Swan Lake".
1981
A velvet and lace affair.
1989
Tartan from head to toe.
1983
She never met a puff sleeve she didn't love
1989
A turquoise look is always a good idea.
1986
A mismatched glove moment.
1983
Matching suit and pussy bow blouse are quite the pair.
1983
A collar moment, that is very on trend today.
1982
The green ballgown always goes.
1994
A simple yet sophisticated look.
1988
A neutral color block outfit is right for every occasion.
1995
Dazzling in a white Versace dress.
1985
This black velvet and taffeta gown is one to remember.
1990
The red and black combo was always one of her favorites.
1988
Polka dots are always a good idea.
1988
Styling idea: Top of your look with a floral hair piece.
1988
The little white dress is perfect for an evening event.
1996
Lady D's purple ensemble, in Versace gown and Jimmy Choo heels.
1983
Frilled collar and puff sleeves dress by Gina Fratini.
1987
Lace and pearls.
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