The real meaning behind Diana’s famous revenge dress

When you picture Princess Diana, many of her most iconic looks come to mind, but the one that left a lasting impression was the unforgettable and remarkable dress that shook the world back in 1994.

The daring black dress quickly became known as the "revenge dress," making headlines globally, and continues to be one of the most talked about fashion moments in Royal history.

Three decades later, the bold off-shoulder ensemble is still remembered not just for its unique and extraordinary style, but also for the powerful message it carried.

Despite the late Princess’ several iconic and notable looks in her lifetime, the one that stood out the most was the striking ensemble dubbed as the "revenge dress."

The Dress

Designed by Greek designer Christina Stambolian, Diana’s stunning little black dress challenged Royal Fashion norms.

Arguably, one of her most glorious ensembles, the off-shoulder black silk cocktail dress which featured an asymmetrical hemline above the knees, debuted at the Vanity Fair gala at London’s Serpentine Gallery on June 29, 1994.

She further enhanced the look with an elegant pearl choker necklace, black tights and stiletto heels.

Vogue noted that Diana had refrained from wearing the dress, despite owning it for three years because initially she believed it to be "too daring."

The magazine also reported that at first the Princess was going to opt for a Valentino gown, but ended up changing her mind at the last minute.

Her former stylist and late Vogue editor Anna Harvey came forward, expressing, "She wanted to look a million dollars."

"And she did."

In The Telegraph, former director of the Serpentine Gallery Dame Julia Peyton-Jones described Diana’s extraordinary arrival at the event.

"As she got out of the car, it was impossible not to gasp," she began. "Diana was one of the most famous and beautiful women in the world."

Continuing, "It was as if she'd come down to earth from another planet. She looked sensational in her off-the-shoulder, low-cut garment, and we all felt drab and old-fashioned in comparison."

Diana ultimately chose to make a statement in the bold attire on the very night ITV Jonathan Dimbleby's revealing and seemingly controversial interview with the then Prince Charles.

During the candid interview, confessed that his marriage with Princess Diana had "irretrievably broken down" and further openly revealed that he had committed adultery. It was later confirmed that his affair was with Camilla Parker Bowles.

As Charles’ bold confession made waves worldwide, Diana stepped out in her striking gown commanding equal attention in the news the next morning.

Although everyone praises Diana’s bold revenge outfit today, the daring dress at the time wasn’t universally celebrated and was met with mixed reactions.

The next day, a columnist for The Telegraph reflected over her clothing, saying, "The Princess of Wales did not have to dine out before the television cameras at the Serpentine Gallery last night in order to avoid seeing her husband sharing his soul with the nation on the box. She could have watched a video, played bridge or simply washed her hair and curled up in bed."

Continuing, "It’s amazing what some people will do to avoid press speculation."

Breaking Royal Protocol?

Princess Diana is known for breaking away from some of the many strict traditions or rules of the Royal Family. From changing her wows to fashion rules, she never shied away from bending some of the rigid rules.

Royal protocol emphasises that women dress modestly, with sophistication and keep away from provocative pieces.

With its tight fit, accentuating the figure, low neckline and short hemline, Diana’s dress became a symbol for defiance, especially as the colour black was reserved for funerals in the Royal Family.

Public Reaction

Despite the risqué design, both the public and the media expressed an overwhelming amount of support for the late Princess.

Royal expert Benjamin Wild came forward speaking to Reader’s Digest and said, "I think people were shocked, but at the same time the mood was very much sympathetic. Everyone understood why she was wearing this dress, so, in that sense, you could say that her choice was very calculating."

Continuing, "People saw a human who was trying to navigate these complex and sometimes archaic rules, and at the same time, the public was well aware that she liked to use her body and clothing to make a statement. This was regarded as Diana’s secret power."

The Royal expert also explained how the dress was a deliberate act of "revenge and rebellion." It was Diana's act of defiance and refusal to be silenced. 

"The revenge dress demonstrates the power of our clothing, the power to say far more with a dress than words could ever do," he added.

"It was a public act of revenge and rebellion. The establishment was trying to silence Diana, and she said no to that."