Ways to Wear
8 Trends Princess Diana Wore First
by Chloe Wilshere, Content Creator
It’s been well over 20 years since Princess Diana’s passing, but the Princess Diana effect in the world of fashion is still just as prominent as ever. A true style icon, she continues to influence everything from runway collections and street style to the wardrobes of royals today.
And with Spencer - the biopic film detailing Princess Diana’s life - set to hit the big screen on November 5th, we’re revisiting her iconic catalogue of outfits all over again thanks to Kristen Stewart’s incredible transformation into ‘the people’s princess.' 👑.
In homage to her iconic fashion moments over the years, we’ve rounded up eight trends that Lady Di wore first in the ‘80s that are now key looks for 2021 and trending all over again.
1. Puffer Jackets
Ever since the first series of Emily in Paris dropped on Netflix, we’ve been ✨obsessed✨ with cute co-ords. And with the second season airing just before Christmas, we’ll be paying homage to the show and dressing up in Parisian-inspired two-pieces in the months ahead.
From chic bouclé textures and classic checks to gold button details, these trending sets are everywhere RN and are super versatile, too. We suggest mixing and matching the jackets and skirts with other separates, so you have plenty of looks to play with all season long.
2. Novelty Knits
Princess Diana made headlines in 1981 when she wore this knitted jumper dappled with black and white sheep to a polo game – not only did it become an instant fan favourite, but Diana wore it on repeat which made quite the statement.
It wouldn’t be winter without some novelty knits thrown into the mix, so we’ll be channelling the fun nature of her iconic jumper with fluffy styles, quirky fruit motifs and statement sequins ✨.
3. Printed Trousers
Princess Diana wasn’t afraid of bright pops of colour or a smattering of pattern, so it’s no wonder she was a champion of statement printed trousers. Featuring bubblegum pink and white gingham checks, this pair is up there as one of her most unforgettable wardrobe pieces.
And this winter retro prints are trending, so it’s easier than ever to incorporate checkerboard, tartan and spotted separates into your own looks. Just choose your fit and pair them with a colour block jumper or blouse 🌈.
4. Knitted Vests
With the world watching Princess Diana’s every fashion move, it’s no wonder that she was responsible for starting so many trends. And one that’s made a serious comeback this season is knitted vests 🧶.
First seen on Lady Di when she was just 19 years old in the ‘80s, they’ve come back into rotation over recent years, with the likes of Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid layering them into their off-duty looks. We’ll be wearing ours over everything from rollnecks and blouses to oversized shirts this winter.
5. Mini Bags
When it comes to impressive handbag collections, Lady Di’s was up there as one of the dreamiest in memory and some of the biggest designers in the world even named styles after her 👜.
Her favourite kind of arm candy? The mini bags that first became popular in the ‘90s. They’ve been trending for a while now and don’t seem to be going anywhere soon. From quilted and faux croc to satin and embossed styles, we’ve got plenty of micro bags on site so you can work this trend into your wardrobe.
6. Larger Than Life Collars
If there’s one thing that Princess Diana’s wardrobe was known for, it’s her legendary larger than life collars. From pie crust to peter pan, she sported so many statement styles over the years.
And over the past couple of seasons, they’ve started to trickle down into our wardrobes, too. Featuring on everything from shirts and blouses to jumpers and dresses, big collar energy is something we’ll be channelling for the foreseeable future. 💁♀️
7. Graphic Sweaters
It’s fair to say that Princess Diana’s downtime wardrobe was as iconic as her red carpet looks and she was famed for her combo of cycling shorts, oversized sweatshirts and Reebok Classics. We don’t know about you, but this winning trio has served up serious style inspo for our WFH wardrobe over the last 18 months.
Update her classic off-duty look for the chilly season ahead by switching out the cycling shorts and pairing one of our trending graphic sweats with joggers or flared leggings.
8. Preppy Checks
Lady Di had so many iconic blazer moments. And plenty of them featured the preppy colourful checks that feel more relevant than ever in 2021.
Seen patterning everything from slips and dresses to skirts and co-ords on site, we’ll be channelling Princess Diana in trending plaid this season.