Princess Diana [1] has remained a subject of fascination in fashion circles long after her unfortunate passing, and for good reason. The princess often subverted conventional dressing standards to create refreshingly cool, effortlessly elegant, and head-turning looks whether she was dropping off her sons at school, attending the Met Gala, or posing on the red carpet at a movie premiere. I'd be remiss not to mention her iconic revenge dress, which is forever etched in my mind.
The Princess of Wales has given us many fashion moments to live for, so to honour that legacy, I set out to find lookalike or contemporary items inspired by some iconic Diana looks. Zara has several affordable styles [2] you can combine into incredibly chic looks [3] that live up to her sartorial standards. Scroll on for our favourite picks.
Sweet Revenge: Bustier Dress
Princess Diana often defied royal dress protocol, but she always did so in an elegant and empowering way. In June 1994, she wore an off-the-shoulder, form-fitting, black silk dress that has become known as the "revenge dress," and has gone down as one of the most iconic fashion moments of all time. We couldn't quite find the perfect Zara match, but this Bustier Dress [5] (£110) is just as sultry, elegant, and feminine.
A Casual Affair: Poplin Shirt and Mom Jeans
The princess had plenty of casual fashion moments that were just as documented as her formal appearances. On occasion, she could be spotted in jeans and a white shirt, so you can channel that same spirit with this relaxed Poplin Shirt [6] (£23), paired with your favourite Mom Fit Jeans [7] (£28).
For the Love of Pearls: Pearl Appliqué Knit Sweater
This Pearl Appliqué Knit Sweater [8] (£30) blends two things the princess loved to wear: pearl-embellished gowns and preppy sweaters. Who can forget her "Elvis look" designed by Catherine Walker? Turns out, the head-to-toe pearl gown is currently on view at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London?
Off-Duty Days: Jacquard Sweater and Plaid Leggings
Continuing the theme of casual, the princess had a thing for prints, bold colours, which were apparent through many of her off-duty looks. Today's contemporary take of a classic look would be a combination of this Jacquard Sweater [9] (£28), which you can style with modernised versions of pedal pushers, these Plaid leggings [10] (£23). She also helped popularize rugby polo shirts, and we found a practical and stylish option in this Zippered High Collar Sweater [11] (£30).
Suited Up: Buttoned Textured Weave Blazer
Princess Diana loved a suit moment, whether it was a matching houndstooth set, a pinstripe or tweed ensemble. This Buttoned Textured Weave Blazer [12] (£70) will make you feel like a trendsetter just like she was. Pair it with a matching skirt for maximum impact. If you're feeling brave, opt for this off-white Jewel-Button Cropped Blazer [13] (£60) with a matching skirt or trousers.
Look Back at It: Open Back Dress
Even her more conservative ensembles sometimes had an element of surprise. At the 1985 premiere of the James Bond movie, she wore a glitter gown with an open back, and you can recreate a similar silhouette with this embellished Open Back Dress [14] (£60).
Chic City Day: Knit Mock Neck Sweater
One of Princess Diana's classic off-duty look comprised of a Knit Mock Neck Sweater [15] (£20) paired with High-Waisted Trousers [16] (£28) finished with an oversize Blazer [17] (£50), a belt and Oxford loafers. I mean, can we say effortlessly chic?