5 Times Princess Di Nailed The Off-Duty Thing (And Here’s How You Can Too)

When we think of Princess Diana we invariably think of her glamorous style at royal engagements but some of our favourite?Diana looks were her laid back, off-duty ensembles that revealed a more playful side to the icon.

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I like to be a free spirit. Some don’t like that but that’s the way I am.

In her years as a member of the royal family, Princess Diana, while consistently style-focused, was generally a bit more conservative as her role demanded. In her downtime, however, the princess’ innate sense of style always shone most when pared back. Here we update some of our favourite?of Diana’s off-duty outfits.

Preppy Princess

The original Sloane Ranger, here is Di nailing preppy chic. We suggest giving the look an update with a dash of hipster irony with these cute loafers and a slouchy jersey blazer such as this one from New Look.

Jean, €19.99 at H&M

Loafers, €44 at Topshop

Jersey blazer, €22.49 at New Look

Shirt dress

A perennial classic, this shirt dress could have fit right in on this season’s catwalks with its statement sleeves and pink hue – a hugely popular colour this year. We’ve updated this look by matching our shirt dress with some trainers for a contemporary?vibe.

Shirtdress, €39.95 at Zara

Belt, €17 at River Island

Shoes, €175, Michael Kors at Kurt Geiger

Playful formal

This look proved divisive here in the office, with some dubbing it practically a fancy dress costume, while others (ME) defended the look as youthful and fun. I don’t want to throw shade at some of our current royals but a lot of the?ensembles can be a bit ageing. We’ve brought this playful affair into the 21st Century with some statement colour blocking and these iconic Zara ankle booties that are sure to be an It shoe this season.

Jumper, €22.99 at H&M

Skirt, €49.99 at H&M

Shoes, €29.95 at Zara

Jumpsuit Around

Dungarees and jumpsuits have become absolute staple items in the last few years, these key pieces manage to straddle the divide between casual and occasion wear, with jumpsuits becoming a reliable look for wedding and other formal occasions. However, the off-duty jumpsuit has a lovely bohemian feel to it. We’ve teamed this slouchy Topshop onesie with a smart shirt with delicate detailing for an unexpected pairing that works surprisingly well.

Shirt, €29.95 at Zara

Jumpsuit, €50 at Topshop

Nautical nymphette

Shades of nautical are always a good option. Diana’s graphic jumper has a vibe of JW Anderson, proving once more that the Princess had a great eye. We’ve paired our take on the jumper with some metallic pleats to firmly plant the look in the here and now.

Jumper, €22.99 at H&M

Skirt, €35 at Topshop