How Season 4 of ‘The Crown’ Captures Princess Diana’s Style

Season 4 of the acclaimed royal drama, “The Crown,” has officially been on “binge mode” since its release. Not only has it been making headlines, but fans of the British establishment are thrilled to see the long awaited appearance of Lady Diana Spencer. Played brilliantly by Emma Corrin, this season puts the spotlight on a new generation of royals and goes in depth on Lady Diana’s relationship with the Prince of Wales (played by Josh O’ Connor) and the struggles they face as newlyweds.

One of the most anticipated segments was understanding the dynamics of this couple; admirers of Princess Diana were intrigued to see how the show would replicate her iconic looks worn during her role in hierarchy. Within these 10 episodes, the audience gets to revisit the daring fashion statements done by the late princess through her transition of a young teenager to renowned royalty. Let’s take a look at how “The Crown” captures the beauty of Princess Diana’s style.

The mastermind behind the show’s fashion is costume designer Amy Roberts, who spent immense time studying photographs of the royal family before sourcing and buying fabrics to be part of the official costumes.

“It was the most fantastic thing to be able to show people not just the Diana we all remember—this amazingly glamorous, attractive, vibrant, refreshing creature—but there's this journey to that point, [which] we see this season,” explains Roberts in an interview with Elle.

80 individual pieces trace Princess Diana’s teen years to her late 20s, and following the timeline of her journey plays a key role in contributing to her personal growth and maturity.

First Appearance

If you haven’t watched the newest season of “The Crown,” here’s your warning that spoilers lie ahead. We first get a glimpse of Corrin’s wardrobe during her second meeting with Prince Charles in episode one. She is seen wearing a pair of baby yellow overalls paired with a playful embroidered floral cardigan to match. Although the cardigan wasn’t worn in Princess Diana’s original look, it was meant to signify her youth and innocence before entering the royal family with this colorful palette.

The Engagement Dress

The moment that changed it all. In episode three, the scene takes place in 1981 when Prince Charles’ engagement to Diana Spencer was announced to the world. Not only did the show capture the famous photograph down to the pose, but it also emulated the blue power suit that Princess Diana had actually bought herself in a department store. Along with the suit, Corrin was wearing an exact replica of the soon-to-be Princess’ stunning engagement ring. This outfit was the first step towards portraying her role of maturity and sophistication.

Fairytale Wedding

A few months after the engagement, the two tied the knot in London at St. Paul’s Cathedral and officially became the Prince and Princess of Wales. Princess Diana’s original ivory silk wedding gown was designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel that included a 25-foot long train that captured the eyes of millions. Roberts replicated this look with vast original detailing such as including the long train, puff sleeves, and crowned veil.

Pretty In Pink

In episode six, the Prince and Princess of Wales are set to embark on a 40 day royal Australian tour in 1983. Now two years into their marriage with their firstborn son Prince William, Princess Diana is working on balancing motherhood, marriage life, and royal duties. In the couples third appearance, they endure a walkabout tour where they greet people on the street. In this scene, Corrin is shown in a bright pink polka dot dress with a matching hat. Another replicated look matched perfectly with the cinched waist, silhouette, and neckline to deliver the charm of Princess Diana’s personal style.

More Than A Princess

In episode nine, Princess Diana is seen attending multiple occasions with her husband and also attends her first solo trip. While arriving to the Brooklyn Academy of Music for the Royal Gala in 1989, Corrin is wearing a recreated look of the white beaded Victor Edelstein gown. This look symbolizes Princess Diana’s persona of grace, elegance, and true professionalism.

Corrin’s ability to do an accurate portrayal of Princess Diana is astonishing, and the replication of her most well known looks were greatly achieved by Roberts. As we wait for her next appearance in Season 5 of “The Crown” that is set to release in 2022 (sigh), we will continue to revisit Princess Diana’s iconic style that will live on for decades.