Fashion of Diana, Princess of Wales: History and Key Facts

The fashion of Diana, Princess of Wales, had a substantial impact on the clothing industry, and her style during the 1980s and 1990s made her a fashion icon whose ensembles were emulated by women around the world. Her wardrobe evolved from the demure, romantic styles of the early 1980s to bolder colours and silhouettes, and later to structured blazers, sheath dresses, two-tone suits and practical separates. Diana worked with designers including Catherine Walker, Victor Edelstein, and David and Elizabeth Emanuel, while also wearing notable pieces from fashion houses such as Versace, Armani, Dior, and Gucci.

Diana's clothing choices attracted sustained media attention and influenced fashion trends, with garments and accessories associated with her becoming widely recognised, including the "Revenge dress", "Travolta dress", "Elvis dress", Gucci Diana and Lady Dior handbags, and her "Black Sheep Sweater". She used fashion to support charities and organisations, and adapted her clothing to the cultural traditions of countries she visited on diplomatic trips. Diana was named to the International Best Dressed Hall of Fame List in 1989 and was included in Time's All-Time 100 Fashion Icons list in 2012. Her style has continued to inspire designers, celebrities, influencers and young women, as well as later fashion collections and exhibitions.

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