Which '90s Supermodel Nudged Princess Diana Into That Iconic Versace Moment?

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Royals (1 / 1) 22.05.2026 04:48 / Simo

A surprising backstage nudge from a '90s catwalk queen led to one of Princess Diana's most glamorous photos — and her hairstylist still calls it a favorite. Read on to discover the full story!

The spark behind the shoot

On the Fat Mascara podcast, Sam McKnight recalled working with photographer Patrick Demarchelier during Couture Week when Christy Turlington wore a pale blue, studded Versace gown. Turlington told McKnight, "My god, Princess Diana would look amazing in this," and McKnight passed Diana a Polaroid. Diana hesitated, worried the dramatic look might draw attention away from her charity work.

A first for Diana

McKnight said this was likely Diana's first time wearing Versace. The resulting images — with her hair slicked back, bare shoulders and a backless gown — appeared in Harper's Bazaar's November 1997 tribute, published after Diana's death in August 1997. McKnight counts the slicked-back shots among his favorites.