Royal Fashion History Unveiled: Princess Diana’s Iconic Wedding Dress to Go on Display

Prince William and Prince Harry have granted permission for their late mother Princess Diana's iconic wedding dress to be showcased publicly for the first time in 25 years.

The historic dress, a symbol of bridal elegance, will be exhibited at Kensington Palace as part of the Royal Style in the Making exhibition.

This marks a significant moment as the dress has not been displayed since Princess Diana's passing, with her sons agreeing to lend it from their private collection.

The exquisite wedding gown, last seen in London in 1995 when Diana resided at Kensington Palace, will take center stage at the newly renovated Orangery from Thursday, June 3rd until January 2022.

Designed by David and Elizabeth Emmanuel, the dress features intricate details such as billowing sleeves, lace flounces, and a remarkable 25ft sequin-encrusted train.

Valued at £151,000, the dress holds historical significance as it was worn by Diana during her wedding to Prince Charles in 1981.

Crafted with panels of antique Carrick Macross lace, once owned by Queen Mary, the dress showcases a fitted bodice, adorned with bows, ruffles, and a full skirt supported by layers of petticoats.

The bride's attire, embellished with 10,000 mother-of-pearl sequins, captivated audiences worldwide.

Following Diana's passing in 1997, the dress was entrusted to her brother Earl Spencer until it could be passed on to her sons upon turning 30, as per her will.

In addition to the wedding dress, Prince William and Prince Harry inherited a collection of 28 other dresses, designer suits, tiaras, and sentimental items like the original tribute text from Earl Spencer's eulogy at Westminster Abbey.

The upcoming exhibition, Royal Style in the Making, will delve into the relationship between designers and royal clients, showcasing rare items including the toile for Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother's coronation dress from 1937.

Matthew Storey, exhibition curator at Historic Royal Palaces, expressed excitement for fashion enthusiasts, highlighting the significance of the wedding dress display.

The unveiling of the dress will kick off a series of commemorative events at Kensington Palace, culminating in the long-awaited statue unveiling of Princess Diana by her sons in July.

The exhibition promises a unique insight into royal fashion history, offering a glimpse into the intricate designs cherished by the British monarchy for generations.