Since the release of photograph stills from Rivals, fans of Dame Jilly Cooper’s Rutshire Chronicles series have eagerly anticipated the Disney+ adaptation which comes to our screens on Friday 18 October.
The cast, starring Emily Atack, Nafessa Williams, Katherine Parkinson and Victoria Smurfit, has undergone a magnificent 80s makeover, which is reminiscent of Princess Diana‘s iconic style.
Set in 1986, this eight-part series dramatises the scandal from Jilly Cooper’s bestselling novel, focusing on the fierce rivalry between Rupert Campbell-Black (Alex Hassell) and Tony Baddingham (David Tennant) in the fictional landscape of independent television.
Many of the standout outfits draw inspiration from Princess Diana’s wardrobe during that era, showcasing everything from chic country looks to red carpet-worthy attire.
+11
Many of the standout outfits from Rivals draw inspiration from Princess Diana’s wardrobe during the 80s
Princess Diana was a trendsetter in 80s fashion, effortlessly capturing attention with her outfit choices.
Whether attending a glamorous gala or enjoying leisure time in the countryside, the royal was always impeccably dressed.
Her wardrobe included everything from casual wear to designer pieces, championing 80s prints, puff sleeves and power suits.
Diana often embraced a country chic style, particularly at sporting events or during visits to Sandringham, opting for tartan skirts, tweed suits and wax jackets, with a preference for Barbour’s ‘Burghley’ coat.
In a similar vein, the cast of Rivals presents outfits that Diana would have surely admired.
In one image, the leading ladies are seen in quilted and wax jackets paired with corduroy and tartan skirts, with one even accessorising her look with a regal pearl necklace.
+11
+11
Diana often embraced a country chic style, particularly at sporting events or during visits to Sandringham, opting for tartan skirts, tweed skirt suits and Barbour wax jackets, with a preference for the ‘Burghley’ coat (pictured, left)
Diana wore several striking skirt suits, including a pillar-box red design by Catherine Walker.
This impeccably tailored two-piece featured a slim-fitting blazer with trademark shoulder pads and gold buttons.
Catherine Walker expertly highlighted the Princess’ strengths, using her clothing to convey a message of confidence and professionalism.
Similarly, Nafessa Williams, who plays Cameron Cook, a powerful TV executive, dons a power suit reminiscent of Diana’s style.
Emily Atack, portraying Sarah Stratton, appears to draw inspiration from the royal aesthetic, too.
She showcases a printed blouse paired with a high-waisted pencil skirt, much like one of Diana’s signature ensembles from 1983.
+11
+11
Diana wore several striking skirt suits, including a pillar-box red design by Catherine Walker. Similarly, Nafessa Williams, who plays Cameron Cook, a powerful TV executive in Rivals, dons a power suit reminiscent of Diana’s style
+11
+11
Emily Atack, portraying Sarah Stratton, appears to draw inspiration from the royal look as well. She showcases a printed blouse paired with a high-waisted pencil skirt, much like one of Diana’s signature ensembles from 1983
Elsewhere, Victoria Smurfit radiates glamour in a gown inspired by the Princess for her role as Maud O’Hara.
Diana famously wore a comparable dress by Graham Wren when she attended a concert at the Barbican Centre with Prince Charles in 1982.
Although Victoria’s version has a racier twist, the emerald green silk taffeta is clearly suggestive of the royal’s iconic style.
Meanwhile, Katherine Parkinson, portraying Lizzie Vereker, opts for a charming tea dress paired with Wellington boots.
This look echoes a blue and floral frock worn by Diana, designed by Donald Campbell, during a visit to Brisbane in 1983.
+11
+11
Victoria Smurfit radiates glamour in a gown inspired by Princess Diana for her role as Maud O’Hara. While Victoria’s version has a racier twist, the emerald green silk taffeta is clearly suggestive of Diana’s iconic style
+11
+11
Katherine Parkinson, portraying Lizzie Vereker, opts for a charming tea dress paired with Wellington boots. This look echoes an almost identical blue and floral frock worn by Diana, designed by Donald Campbell, during a visit to Brisbane in 1983
Rivals is another example of the many fashion inspirations drawn from Diana’s enduring legacy.
The late royal continues to influence everyone from style enthusiasts to modern royalty, such as Kate and Meghan, with her timeless outfits.
The next time you don a puffed sleeve blouse or embrace power dressing, remember to thank Princess Diana for paving the way.
News
King Charles speaks about the ‘unbearable emptiness’ following the loss of a loved one just four months after the death of Princess Diana in letter he wrote to a friend in 1997
A poignant letter from King Charles discussing the ‘unbearable emptiness’ of grief four months after Princess Diana‘s death has come to light 27 years on. Charles tells the recipient, known…
Kate Middleton is expected to join royals at Remembrance Sunday Cenotaph service – as Prince William gives health update
The Princess of Wales is expected to attend Remembrance Sunday events this weekend after her husband Prince William said she was ‘doing really well’. Kate is making a gradual return to…
Pie fortune heir admits killing his friend in Christmas Eve knife attack – but will face trial after denying murdering him
An heir to a £230m pie fortune today admitted to killing his former housemate on Christmas Eve in a horror knife attack, but will face trial after denying murder….
Angel Reese gives emotional verdict on Donald Trump’s election victory over Kamala Harris
Angel Reese admittedly ‘woke up speechless’ after Donald Trump‘s electoral victory over Kamala Harris on Tuesday night. ‘I’m so disappointed in America,’ the Chicago Sky star wrote on X. ‘Some…
Victoria Beckham reveals the secret to her smoky eye look as she shares behind the scenes snaps getting ready for the Harper’s Bazaar Awards
Victoria Beckham shared a behind the scenes look at her makeup routine ahead of the Harper’s Bazaar Awards on Tuesday evening. The former Spice Girl, 50, who was…
Can Trump run again in 2028? The rules on the next election after he stormed to victory
Former president Donald Trump stormed to victory in the 2024 presidential election, securing another four years in the White House – but could he make it eight? In short, probably not. The 22nd…
End of content
No more pages to load