Whether you love them or not, some celebrity outfits become unforgettable fashion moments. Think of Marilyn Monroe’s windswept white dress, Rihanna’s bold yellow Met Gala gown in 2015, or Cher’s feathered Bob Mackie bodysuit. Another iconic look that keeps inspiring red carpet appearances? Princess Diana’s powder-blue Catherine Walker dress with its matching chiffon scarf, worn at the 1987 Cannes Film Festival. (Stars like Lily-Rose Depp, Laura Harrier, and Elle Fanning have all drawn from this style over the years.) While the blue dress remains one of Diana’s most recognizable outfits, she also wore another standout look during her time at the festival—one that perfectly captured her 1980s fashion sense.
Princess Diana in Cannes.
Photo: Getty Images
A mix of Sloane Ranger polish and nautical flair, Diana’s double-breasted blazer and puffball skirt combo was peak ’80s power dressing—yet perfectly suited for the French Riviera, thanks to its striped detailing and pointed-toe heels. Designed by her favorite, Catherine Walker, the look boldly rejected minimalism. With puffball skirts making a major comeback, expect to see Diana-inspired styles everywhere this summer. Polka dots are back, shoulder pads are in, and the “more is more” approach she championed is having a moment.
Celebrities have long taken cues from Diana’s style—from Harry Styles in that sheep sweater to Angelina Jolie’s revenge dress moment and Hailey Bieber’s sporty neon bike shorts. Even Sloane style, once seen as preppy and privileged, is back in vogue, thanks to brands like Burberry, Prada’s quirky skirt suits, and Laura Andraschko’s Barbour jackets for the effortlessly cool set.
Diana’s powder-blue Cannes Film Festival dress remains one of her most iconic looks.
Photo: Getty Images