When Princess Diana donned a modern saree!

On February 4, 1988, during an official visit to Thailand, Princess Diana made a memorable fashion statement that elegantly blended diplomacy and style. At a state dinner hosted by the Crown Prince in Bangkok, Diana wore a breathtaking saree-style ball gown designed by her longtime couturier, Catherine Walker.The ensemble, crafted in fuchsia and purple silk chiffon, was a subtle and graceful tribute to Thai culture and tradition.The gown’s design was heavily inspired by the traditional Thai saree, with a modern Western twist. The strapless, asymmetrical bodice was tightly pleated and made of delicate silk chiffon in a rich fuchsia hue. A deep violet sash formed a single shoulder strap, cascading into a trailing stole at the back, an elegant nod to the draping of a traditional saree. The vibrant colour palette was no accident; it reflected the hues of the lotus flower, Thailand’s national symbol, which Diana also wore in her hair that evening.Catherine Walker, who designed many of Diana’s most iconic looks, created this gown specifically for the royal’s 1988 tour of Thailand. The dress, labelled “Catherine Walker for The Chelsea Design Company, London,” demonstrated not only Walker’s keen eye for detail but also Diana’s deep respect for the countries she visited.Wearing the gown while dining with the King of Thailand, Diana exuded both glamour and cultural sensitivity. Her choice was widely praised as a thoughtful gesture, reinforcing her image as a royal who connected with people across the globe through her clothing.This iconic dress later became part of the exhibition “Diana: Her Fashion Story”, which ran from February 2017 to November 2018 at Kensington Palace. It captivated visitors as an example of how Diana used fashion to communicate grace, diplomacy, and individuality. The gown was eventually sold for $48,300 USD, approximately ₹40 lakh and is now housed at the Museo de la Moda in Santiago, Chile.Princess Diana’s saree-inspired gown remains one of her most admired looks. It stands as a symbol of her ability to blend fashion with meaning, honouring traditions while staying true to her elegant, distinctive style.