All the ways Princess Diana inspired a generation
As one of the most famous women of all time, Diana, Princess of Wales was a global icon, loved by her friends and family and adored from afar by millions around the world.
Known as the ‘People’s Princess’, the much-missed royal, who died 25 years ago today (31 August), continues to be an inspiration more than two decades after her death.
The fairytale wedding
When Lady Diana Spencer walked down the aisle at St Paul’s Cathedral in July, 1981, the beautiful bride seemed to have it all: the handsome prince, the incredible dress, the lavish wedding, and a bright future ahead of her.
Diana, Princess of Wales walks through a recently cleared minefield in Angola (PA Archive)
As Princess of Wales, Diana devoted herself to charity work, becoming a patron to many and being linked to even more. Initially she focused on causes related to children’s welfare, later taking a close interest in health issues.
very grateful that that love still feels there, even 20 years on. And I think that’s a huge credit to her that I can still feel that now.”
Emotionally open
In contrast with the ‘stiff upper lip’ standard of the royal family, Diana was remarkably open about her personal struggles, candidly baring her emotions in the famous Panorama interview with Martin Bashir in 1995 (for which the BBC has now apologised, after an investigation revealed it was secured using “deceitful” methods).
In the conversation, Diana described the “isolating experience” of being catapulted into the limelight and revealed she’d suffered with post-natal depression and bulimia.
William and Harry have continued their mother’s legacy with the Heads Together mental health initiative, with William saying: “I think she would be proud of the campaign, proud of everybody involved, proud of us. But specifically proud of the UK for having this conversation.”
Fashion icon
Praised for her glamorous style during her many public appearances, Diana knew that as one of the world’s most photographed women, she had the power to elevate designers’ profiles.
