An Obsession with a Woman We've Never Met

Graphics by Anika Dua

Diana Spencer, the former Princess of Wales, is a name that holds a special place in the hearts of millions. Her fashion sense, recent portrayals, and fresh perspective within the royal family make her a figure people feel they can connect with. However, as time passes, her image only grows. Why is a generation that never lived during her lifetime continuing her legacy?

From my perspective, the introduction to Princess Diana for our generation was through our older relatives and friends, as they describe the cultural fascination with her.

Additionally, our picture of her was solidified through the eyes of her fashion legacy. Living in the public eye during the 80’s and 90’s, two key fashion periods, her outfits set and strengthened trends. As trends recycle, something she wore is likely to appear on a Pinterest board because her closet has a wide variety. Today, her fashion sense is most attributed to an “old money” look that lots of people attempt for, with lots of sweaters and a sort of “dressy-casual” appearance. The people do love to dress like a princess, and this time they can do it with things easily accessible in their closet.

Her name becomes solidified among our generation. Obsession with her is emphasized with how pop-culture today emphasizes her message. The Crown really brought a new image to her struggles, and we really connected with her seeing Kristen Stewart portray her in Spencer. 

Although the media’s relationship with Diana was hostile and pervasive during her lifetime, the public identified with her and her struggles. We still see the public’s sympathy in present day media. For example, SZA connected with Diana, recreating an iconic photo of her sitting on a diving board on the sea for her SOS album. She told Complex “I just loved how isolated she felt and that was what I wanted to convey the most.”

Even decades after her passing, Diana remains a relevant pop culture icon. I predict that as time goes on, our fascination with Princess Diana will continue, even if it is through adaptations of her or works inspired by her legacy.