In the world of royal fashion, few names resonate as strongly as that of Princess Diana.
Her style choices have left an indelible mark on fashion, influencing not only her contemporaries but also her daughter-in-law, Kate Middleton.
While Kate often pays homage to Diana’s iconic wardrobe, she remains firmly grounded in the traditions and expectations of royal attire, particularly when it comes to wearing black.
Fashion expert Zandra Rhodes recently shared insights about Diana’s approach to style, noting that the late princess had a fondness for minimalistic dark dresses.
However, Rhodes pointed out that Diana typically reserved black for mourning or funerals, a rule that Kate seems to adhere to more strictly.
According to Rhodes, Diana would occasionally break this unspoken royal guideline, visiting her Mayfair shop to select garments in darker shades, which would then be made in alternative colors to comply with royal decorum.
In stark contrast to Diana’s more rebellious approach, Kate tends to stick closely to royal dress codes.
The current Princess of Wales is rarely seen in black unless at solemn occasions, such as funerals or remembrance events.
For instance, she donned black attire during the funerals of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, as well as throughout the mourning period following the Queen’s passing.
Kate’s wardrobe is otherwise filled with vibrant hues and stylish neutrals, reflecting her preference for standing out rather than blending in.
This inclination aligns with the late Queen Elizabeth’s fashion philosophy, which encouraged royals to wear bright colors to distinguish themselves in public settings.
Bethan Holt, fashion director at The Daily Telegraph, emphasized that Kate’s fashion choices are often intentional nods to Diana’s legacy.
According to Holt, Kate skillfully incorporates elements reminiscent of Diana’s style while modernizing them for today’s fashion landscape.
“She brings it straight modern,” Holt noted, indicating that Kate manages to pay tribute without appearing outdated or overly nostalgic.
Unlike her mother-in-law, who sometimes sported bold 80s silhouettes, Kate opts for sleek and contemporary designs.
This modern twist allows her to honor Diana’s influence while maintaining her unique fashion identity.
The result is a wardrobe that feels both timeless and relevant, reflecting the evolution of royal fashion.
Rhodes recalls that Diana began defying royal fashion norms as early as 1981, shortly after her engagement to Prince Charles.
At a fundraising concert, she made headlines by wearing a striking black gown designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel, the same designers who would later create her wedding dress.
This daring choice marked a significant moment in royal fashion history, showcasing Diana’s willingness to challenge conventions.
That evening was particularly poignant, as it coincided with Charles’s public admission of infidelity during their marriage.
The fitted, off-the-shoulder dress with its dramatic hemline turned heads and set the tone for Diana’s future as a fashion icon, illustrating her ability to blend personal expression with royal duty.
As Kate continues to navigate her role as a modern royal, she does so with an awareness of the past.
By channeling Diana’s spirit through her fashion choices, she not only honors her late mother-in-law but also carves out her own identity within the royal family.
Kate’s fashion journey serves as a reminder that style can transcend generations, evolving while still paying respect to those who came before.
In this way, the current Princess of Wales embodies a delicate balance of tradition and modernity, ensuring that the legacy of Princess Diana remains alive and well in the royal wardrobe.