Snaps of a sun-kissed Princess Diana holidaying in the ’80s and ’90s are enough to invoke major wanderlust—diving off yachts and wafting around in breezy linen were the original envy-inducing holiday snaps. Remembered for her fashion-forward credentials, the late Princess’s summer wardrobe was no exception. Outside of revenge dresses and ice blue Catherine Walker gowns, Diana’s statement swimwear is enough to set us hunting for that perfect retro all-in-one, even if Mustique or Saint Tropez’s sandy coastlines are but a distant dream for most of us.
These days, when you think of summer style inspo, it’s probably the likes of Dakota Johnson or Dua Lipa who top the list. But Diana’s laid-back linen separates, vibrant swimwear, and throw-on dresses made up one of the most memorable elements of the royal’s always effortless, timeless wardrobe.
A lemon-yellow jumpsuit worn with gold shoes, a matching belt, and stacks of jewelry made for a sunny look on a trip to Mallorca in 1987; animal-print pieces accompanied her on several excursions; and her repertoire of swimwear—including an iconic floral bikini worn in the South of France back in 1985—was a joyful explosion of color. And there was, always, a jaunty look for the polo and Royal Ascot come summertime. In many ways, the Princess of Wales’s holiday wardrobe feels just as relevant now as it did back then. Below, 30 photos that prove nobody did warm weather dressing and summer style quite like Princess Diana.
