A distinguished British fashion house, Bellville Sassoon, has left an indelible mark on the world of couture through its association with Princess Diana. Established in 1958 by Belinda Bellville and David Sassoon, this iconic brand crafted numerous memorable ensembles for the late princess, showcasing her timeless elegance. Initially introduced to Bellville Sassoon in 1981, Princess Diana visited their Knightsbridge boutique seeking attire for her engagement portraits, though a misunderstanding initially redirected her to Harrods.
Bellville Sassoon's collaboration with Princess Diana deepened as she returned with her mother, Frances Shand Kydd, who was already a loyal client. This led to the creation of Diana's "going away" outfit post-wedding—a peach silk dress adorned with a white ruffled collar. Over the years, Bellville Sassoon designed over 70 outfits for the princess, including some of her most iconic looks such as the embellished red gown from the premiere of For Your Eyes Only and the floral tea dress worn at a Windsor polo match in 1988. These creations not only highlighted her personal style but also redefined royal fashion norms.
While Bellville Sassoon served other illustrious figures like Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Kennedy during its prime, it remains eternally linked to Princess Diana. In his book, The Glamour of Bellville Sassoon, David Sassoon reflected on how Diana revolutionized regal attire, making it both contemporary and captivating. Her partnership with Bellville Sassoon demonstrated that tradition could harmonize beautifully with innovation, inspiring generations to embrace creativity within established frameworks. This legacy continues to influence today’s designers and fashion enthusiasts alike, celebrating the artistry of blending classic charm with modern flair.