Princess Diana’s Iconic Met Gala Moment

Back in 1996, the world took a breath when Princess Diana graced the red carpet at the Met Gala. Fresh from her divorce from Prince Charles, this was her sole appearance at the renowned fundraising event. And, of course, she made it unforgettable by altering her designer dress.

The navy silk slip dress by John Galliano was seen as a bold step into the fashion rebellion of the ’90s, originally intended to be worn with a corset. But Diana, with her unique vision, had different plans, transforming it into a powerful statement.

Just hours after landing in New York, Diana made a dazzling entrance, flashing her camera-ready smile from the tarmac to the iconic steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, accompanied by her close friend, Liz Tilberis, who was also the evening’s chair and editor of Harper’s Bazaar.

This navy slip dress with black lace trim was a departure from Diana’s usual style. Galliano, then new to his role at Dior, had met with Diana at Kensington Palace to discuss designs, even trying to persuade her to wear something pink. “She didn’t go for it,” Galliano recalled in a Hulu docuseries.

Opting instead for something darker and more assertive, Diana made changes to the look without informing Galliano. “I couldn’t believe it,” he recounted. She discarded her corset, declaring that she felt “so freed.”

That night marked a turning point in Diana’s fashion choices, unshackled from royal protocols that often dictated her wardrobe.

As for accessories, she sported her signature sapphire and pearl choker alongside the memorable “revenge dress” and the famous “Travolta dress” from the White House dance. She wore her sapphire engagement ring, a symbol of her connection to Prince William, who later proposed to Kate Middleton with it.

Diana’s Mini Dior handbag, once gifted to her by France’s first lady, was later named “Lady Dior” in her honor.

Now, nearly three decades later, the Met Gala continues to echo with the same excitement. The 2025 event, again taking place at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, celebrates “Superfin: Tailing Black Style.”

This year’s theme highlights the rich history and impact of Black Dandyism, a style characterized by elegance and cultural pride. Inspired by Dr. Monical Miller’s book, Slave to Fashion, the exhibition also marks the Institute’s first menswear-focused showcase since 2003.