How Laura Ashley’s Style Shaped Diana’s Early Wardrobe

 

Before she was a global icon, Lady Diana Spencer was just a teen who loved flowers and lace. Many people don’t realize how much one designer really changed her look.

She wore a lot of Laura Ashley designs in the late 1970s. This style was all about being soft, shy, and very British. It’s what made the world fall in love with her.

Flowers and Frills for a Future Princess

Diana loved the floral skirts and white blouses from this brand. They were made in Wales and had a very "countryside" feel to them.

The clothes were simple but elegant. For a young girl living at Althorp, these outfits were perfect for formal events without looking too old or stuffy.

Saving History from the Trash Bin

Did you know many of these clothes were almost lost forever? In the early 80s, Diana’s room was cleaned out by her stepmother.

Items like her favorite straw hat and skirts were given to staff or donated. Luckily, the Princess Diana Museum has saved these pieces for us to see today.

If you visit the museum, you can see the "Diana Spencer" labels hand-sewn into the waistbands. It's a tiny detail that makes her feel so real.

Why This Style Still Matters Today

People still try to copy the "Sloane Ranger" look that Diana started. It’s all about mixing high-quality cotton with classic patterns.

The Princess and the Platypus Foundation works hard to keep these stories alive. They show us that Diana's style started long before the big wedding dresses.

Tips for Your Own Vintage Look

• Look for Labels: Check old clothes for hand-sewn names, just like Diana’s items.
• Natural Fabrics: Stick to cotton and silk if you want that classic 70s vibe.
• Keep it Simple: A white blouse goes with almost anything and never goes out of style.

It's amazing how a few floral skirts helped a young girl become the most photographed woman in the world. Diana's early wardrobe was the first step in her amazing journey.

Even with small mistakes in her vows later on, her fashion was always on point from the start. We are lucky these items were saved from being disposed of.