Lady Dior and Gucci Diana: The Handbags That Immortalize Princess Diana

Two luxury fashion houses have renamed handbags after Princess Diana, whose style continues to influence fashion decades after her death. In 1995, Dior renamed its 'Chouchou' bag the 'Lady Dior' after Diana Spencer wore it to a Cézanne exhibition opening at the Grand Palais in Paris on September 25, 1995, a gift from French first lady Bernadette Chirac. The bag features arched handles, Cannage stitching, and Dior charm pendants. Diana reportedly chose Dior over Chanel because the interlocking 'C's reminded her of Charles and Camilla. Gucci's 'Diana' bag, originally from 1991, was renamed under creative director Alessandro Michele (now succeeded by Sabato de Sarno) in honor of Diana, who carried it in the 1990s, including to pilates classes. Both brands have updated the designs with new colors, materials, and initiatives like Dior Lady Art, which turns the bag into a canvas for artists. Diana's tragic death on August 31, 1997, in Paris cemented her legacy as a fashion icon, with her looks still replicated on social media, especially after 'The Crown' and the film 'Spencer'.