Princess Diana: The ultimate fashion icon

From the black mini dress to a dupatta draped over her head, the late Princess sure knew how to blend in

KARACHI: "I don't go by the rule book. I lead from the heart, not the head," late Princess Diana once said. She was spontaneous, she was rebellious and she was a people's princess. She mingled with the general public while the rest of the Royal family waved from the Buckingham Palace's gallery.

PHOTO: CBS NEWS

Similarly, her fashion choices were considered 'outrageous' by the Royals. A bit too tawdry, a bit too brash - Princess Di never really cared how the family she was married into perceived her style statement.

As today marks the 21st death anniversary of the former Princess of Wales, we take a look back at her best looks while she visited several countries.

Pakistan:



In 1996, Diana visited Pakistan for a Shaukat Khanum fundraiser, organised by the now Prime Minister Imran Khan and former wife, Jemima Goldsmith. She opted for our national dress throughout her trip and not surprisingly, looked just as chic as in western wear.

Diana was seen wearing trousers with long length shirts and a dupatta, which she either wore over her head or around her neck.

India:



Diana visited India on an official trip in February 1992. Her apparel during the trip was relatively simple and colourful, mostly opting for knee-length skirts and matching pumps.

The late princess also posed in front of the famous Taj Mahal donning a burnt orange shirt against a lilac skirt and matching pump heels. And, her sunnies definitely stood out!

The Middle East:



In a recent revelation, The National reported that Diana might have worn a burka during her six-day trip in November 1986.

Her then lady-in-waiting Anne Beckwith-Smith had reportedly sent out a letter to designer Elizabeth Emmanuel - who also created her wedding dress - that Diana had to be modestly dressed during her visit to the Muslim Kingdom.

“Certain special requirements concerning dress need to be observed and I am writing to ask if it would be possible to submit to The Princess of Wales a few sketches for day and evening wear from which Her Royal Highness could select items for this tour. Their Royal Highnesses will be visiting Oman, Qatar, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. In all cases modesty is the order of the day," the official letter read.

Japan:



In 1986, Diana visited Japan in a red and white polka dotted dress. Upon her arrival, she was presented with a Kimono, the national attire of Japan. Being ever so humble, Diana gracefully accepted it and draped it over her dress. Nonetheless, she looked absolutely gorgeous!

Western world:



Whether it was a charity event or a White House dinner, Diana's style never faltered. She was always fearless when it came to her choice of ensembles. One such example is the Christina Stambolian mini dress she wore in 1994, days after her separation from Prince Charles. The attire was termed as the 'Revenge Dress' as she broke all Royal dressing codes.

The off shoulder number had many jaws hitting the floor. Diana paired it with a plain black clutch and an emerald and pearl choker. Oh, and the bright red painted nails. All of this was a big no no when it came to how a Royal was expected to dress!

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