Let’s talk about one of the most iconic moments in royal history — the night Princess Diana served major shade in what's now famously known as the "Revenge Dress." Even Diana knew that sometimes the best revenge isn't confrontation; it's making a powerful statement. When Prince Charles publicly admitted to an affair with Camilla Parker Bowles during their 15-year marriage, many might have expected Diana to retreat from the spotlight. But not our girl Diana. Instead, she stepped out in a stunning, figure-hugging black dress that sent shockwaves through the world, showing everyone, including her estranged husband, exactly what he was missing.
Princess Diana wearing ‘The Revenge Dress’ at the 1994 Vanity Fair summer party. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)
MORE: Princess Diana’s Life Could Have Been Saved If She Was Wearing a Seatbelt in Paris Car Crash
Read also:Abby Mueller Shares Her Broadway Journey As Carole King
Setting the Stage: The Night of the Revenge Dress
It was June 1994, and Diana was set to attend the annual Vanity Fair summer party at the Serpentine Gallery in London. But here's the twist: that very same evening, a bombshell interview with Prince Charles was set to air on ITV, where he would publicly admit to his affair with Camilla Parker Bowles. At the time, Diana and Charles had been separated for three years, a period marked by immense personal turmoil for the princess. Instead of shying away from the spotlight, Diana decided to make a bold statement. Kerry Taylor, owner of Kerry Taylor Auctions, which auctioned off 10 of Diana’s most iconic outfits back in 2013, spoke about the impact of her fashion choice. "We called that 'The Revenge Dress,'" Kerry told Marie Claire. "She wore it the same evening Prince Charles confessed to his adultery with Camilla. Diana had a public engagement at the Serpentine gallery, and while some might have backed out, Diana stepped out in that dress, looking absolutely stunning. It was a statement heard 'round the world."
The Designer Behind the Dress
The dress was designed in 1991 by Greek designer Christina Stambolian, specially crafted for the Princess of Wales. However, Diana initially hesitated to wear it. Christina revealed to Marie Claire that Diana thought the dress was "too daring" due to its off-the-shoulder, deep-V neckline and asymmetrical hemline. In fact, the dress almost didn't make its debut that night. Diana had originally planned to wear a Valentino dress to the event, but a press release prematurely revealed her choice. Her former stylist, Anna Harvey, explained, "She wanted to look a million dollars, and she did." The decision to wear the Revenge Dress was both a fashion statement and a personal triumph, proving that sometimes the best revenge is walking away—and looking fabulous while doing it.
MORE: Prince Charles’ Cheating Scandal During Marriage to Princess Diana Made Her “Fade Physically”
Join the Conversation
Want to dive deeper into royal drama and keep up with the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Prince William, and all things royal? Join our Facebook group for the inside scoop and connect with fellow royal enthusiasts. The royal family never fails to keep us entertained, and we’re here to share every moment with you.
