Princess Diana’s evolution from a traditional royal to a fashion icon is highlighted in the upcoming “Princess Diana’s Style & A Royal Collection” auction, scheduled for June 26 in Los Angeles. This event will showcase the design illustrations and fabric swatches from renowned designer Jacques Azagury, who significantly influenced Diana’s fashion choices during her final years. Azagury, who first met Diana in 1985, recalls how her charismatic presence put him at ease, laying the groundwork for a collaborative relationship that ultimately rejuvenated her public image. As he worked with her, he aimed to shift her wardrobe away from the conventional frills of royal attire towards a more sophisticated and modern style.
Amidst strict royal fashion rules, Diana began to break free from protocol as her marriage deteriorated, using her attire as a means of self-expression. One pivotal moment in this rebellion was the infamous “Revenge Dress,” a daring black number Diana wore in 1994 on the night Charles confessed to infidelity. This choice of outfit was a declaration of her independence and a sign of her transformation into a woman who could further redefine her identity. Azagury’s designs during this transformative period were intended to reflect Diana’s newfound freedom, allowing her to showcase her personality and femininity on an international stage.
The ‘90s marked a significant turning point for Diana’s wardrobe, characterized by a shift towards more revealing and fashionable choices. According to Azagury, this period represented her liberation; the dresses he created conveyed her sense of autonomy and strength. His goal was to help Diana express herself through clothing that aligned with her evolving identity, often pushing the boundaries set by royal standards. Azagury describes how her garments highlighted her confidence, moving away from her traditional royal image to embrace a look that was sleek, modern, and striking.
Yet, this journey of self-discovery through fashion wasn’t without its challenges. Azagury recounted moments when Diana surprised him with her requests for even bolder designs. Despite being her designer, there were limits he felt necessary to maintain, particularly regarding royal expectations. The designer also noted Diana’s fondness for colors and cuts previously considered inappropriate for royals, such as black, which is traditionally reserved for mourning. This shift in her fashion choices symbolized a broader release from her past, allowing her the freedom to convey her new identity to the public.
Diana’s lasting impact extended beyond her lifetime, continuing to influence fashion and royal representation. Azagury emphasized her legacy as enduring, particularly in how other royals—like Kate Middleton—are often compared to her style. The pieces Diana wore remain timeless and relevant, a testament to her innate sense of fashion and individuality. Azagury believes that every outfit Diana donned communicated deeper messages about her character, resonating with people and fashion enthusiasts well beyond her years.
As the auction approaches, it serves as a reminder of Diana’s indelible mark on fashion and her unique capacity to blend elegance with personal expression. The collection highlights not just her iconic looks but also the profound narratives they represented during pivotal moments in her life. Azagury’s reflections on Diana suggest that her legacy remains an essential part of contemporary culture, showcasing how one woman’s fearless approach to style can leave an enduring imprint on the world. The auction, titled “Princess Diana’s Style & A Royal Collection,” is set to begin on June 26, presenting a fitting tribute to a dynamic figure whose influence continues to thrive.
