This new trend is proof we still look to Diana for fashion inspiration
It's everywhere for party season
It's everywhere for party season
You really don't have to be a genius to know Princess Diana was a style icon way before the term 'influencer' was a thing. Remember those trainers she wore that Kate Middleton later brought back in fashion?
From power suits to Sloane ranger-esque checked jackets, I literally can't count how many fashion trends she championed which are coming back in force this season.
Case in point: Dynasty-style dresses that are everywhere for party season (and handily just in time for the reboot of the show on Netflix. You know the ones. Shoulder pads, a bit of ruching, perhaps some velvet, a healthy dose of sequins and pretty much anything that shimmers.
Now obviously, this isn't a trend for the fainthearted, and more importantly, you don't want to look like you're an extra from Pretty in Pink. However, it is possible to nail the trend, the classy way, and obviously Diana knew how. Which is why she was dubbed Dynasty Di at the time.
Fun fact for you: She got the nickname from the British press after she wore a white one-sleeved beaded Hachi dress to the James Bond Octopussy premiere in 1983. But it was really in the late 1980s that she went all out with the look, with a little help from designer Bruce Oldfield.
The key, as you might have guessed by these pictures, is to avoid contrasting accessories. Note how Diana always had shoes and bags in the same colour-way, and avoided any embellishments? They also matched the dress most of the time. You also want to wear minimal jewellery. Because of course, you want to let the dress do all the talking.
Marie Claire Newsletter
Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!
Ready to tackle on the trend now? Perfect, because I've got just the dresses for you.
Shop now: PREEN BY THORNTON BREGAZZI Clarissa asymmetric sequined mesh midi dress for £930 from Net-a-Porter
Shop now: Metallic Cut Out Bodycon Dress for £35 from Miss Selfridge
Shop now: Mela London - Silver shimmer 'Alissia' v-neck maxi dress for £35 from Debenhams
Shop now: Phase Eight Anthea Pleat Dress for £120 from House of Fraser
Shop now: Phase Eight Nigella full length dress for £130 from John Lewis
Well it is party season after all.
What better time to embrace the trend?
Penny Goldstone is the Contributing Fashion Editor at Marie Claire UK. She writes about catwalk trends and the latest high street and Instagram sartorial must-haves. She also helms the Women Who Win franchise.
She has worked in fashion for over 10 years, contributing to publications such as Cosmopolitan, Red, Good Housekeeping, and Stylist.
-
This divisive coat is Hailey Bieber's secret to instantly making any outfit look chic
*adds to cart*
By Sofia Piza
-
Let me tell you, this is the only colour you'll be wearing ALL Winter
Even the colour-averse will love it
By Penny Goldstone
-
Beauty editors and make-up artists swear by NARS products, but these are the 8 that live permanently in my make-up bag
These iconic formulas are worth the hype
By Mica Ricketts