Princess Diana made a bold fashion statement at the 1996 Met Gala, working with designer John Galliano to create a navy blue satin dress that showcased her liberation and confidence.
Ingrid Seward, editor-in-chief of Majesty magazine, has chronicled the lives of King Charles III and Queen Elizabeth II in her new book, "My Mother and I." Amidst the accounts of royal protocol and family dynamics, Seward sheds light on a pivotal fashion moment for Princess Diana: her appearance at the 1996 Met Gala.
Diana, poised to grace the "most influential red carpet in the world" mere months after her divorce from King Charles, sought the creative genius of designer John Galliano. The collaboration resulted in a custom-designed navy blue satin dress that exuded both elegance and a sense of liberation.
Inside Princess Diana's Daring Met Gala Look: Custom Dress, Corset Controversy, and a Royal Statement
Galliano recalled the genesis of Diana's Met Gala ensemble, revealing that she had initially preferred a pink hue. However, Diana's resolute nature asserted itself, and she opted for a navy blue shade. The result was a timeless classic that complemented her graceful demeanor.
As the dress took shape, Galliano meticulously crafted a corset to provide support and structure. However, upon arrival at the Met Gala, Diana made a surprising decision: she discarded the corset altogether.
Inside Princess Diana's Daring Met Gala Look: Custom Dress, Corset Controversy, and a Royal Statement
Galliano described Diana's transformation, noting that she "felt so liberated" by its removal. The dress, now uninhibited by the constraints of the corset, took on a more sensual and alluring form.
Diana completed her ensemble with a delicate pearl choker necklace and matching earrings, adding an air of sophistication to the provocative décolletage. Her choice to unveil her shoulders was a bold departure from royal convention, demonstrating her willingness to break boundaries.
Inside Princess Diana's Daring Met Gala Look: Custom Dress, Corset Controversy, and a Royal Statement
As Diana emerged from the car, the crowd erupted in a frenzy of excitement. The cameras flashed, capturing her confidence and the dress's undeniable allure. Galliano witnessed the paparazzi's fascination, exclaiming, "The dress really bling and the jewels and everything."
Princess Diana's Met Gala appearance marked a significant milestone in her fashion journey. She had long defied expectations with her sartorial choices, using clothing as a means of self-expression and empowerment. The 1996 Met Gala was no exception.
Inside Princess Diana's Daring Met Gala Look: Custom Dress, Corset Controversy, and a Royal Statement
In the wake of her separation from Prince Charles, Diana's fashion choices became increasingly bold and assertive. Her appearance at the Met Gala, with its navy blue satin gown, daring décolletage, and liberated spirit, embodied her newfound independence and her unwillingness to conform to societal norms.
Princess Diana's Met Gala look remains a testament to her enduring fashion legacy. It serves as a reminder of her ability to transcend royal protocol and embrace her individuality. Through her clothing, Diana challenged conventions, inspired countless others, and left an indelible mark on the world of fashion.
Inside Princess Diana's Daring Met Gala Look: Custom Dress, Corset Controversy, and a Royal Statement
