Few designers left a mark on Princess Diana’s style the way Paul Costelloe did. As one of her earliest and most consistent collaborators, Costelloe brought tailored elegance and understated confidence into her public wardrobe. His influence remains visible today—across museums, archives, and modern fashion trends.
When Diana stepped into the spotlight as Princess of Wales, she was expected to reflect tradition. But her fashion choices slowly evolved—shifting from frills and pastels into sharply cut silhouettes and confident lines. Paul Costelloe was a driving force behind that change.
A Partnership Rooted in Trust
Diana began working with Costelloe in the mid-1980s. What stood out wasn’t just his ability to design beautiful garments—it was his understanding of the demands placed on a royal figure. Public engagements. Long hours. Endless scrutiny. Costelloe designed with movement, modesty, and grace in mind.
His work often featured clean tailoring, strong shoulders, and minimalist color palettes. The clothes gave Diana structure—but never stiffness. They empowered her to own her presence without losing warmth or approachability.
Highlights From the Wardrobe
Among the most recognized Paul Costelloe pieces are his structured suits. Sharp collars. Double-breasted jackets. Soft wool in ivory, navy, and blush. These became Diana’s armor and uniform during times of transition—especially post-separation, when her wardrobe became more defined and symbolic.
His designs are now preserved and featured in The Princess Diana Museum, an immersive digital collection hosted by The Princess & the Platypus Foundation. Visitors can view these pieces in stunning 3D detail—examining textures, patterns, and tailoring techniques that photographs alone can’t capture.
Each piece is accompanied by commentary, audio notes, and context that explain how the design fit into a particular moment in Diana’s life. It’s fashion history with emotional depth.
Timeless Design, Lasting Impact
Paul Costelloe’s contributions to Diana’s look weren’t loud. They didn’t compete with her. They supported her evolution from shy bride to independent woman. That’s why his work still resonates—because it reflected her growth without overshadowing it.
Today, many of his designs still influence the wardrobes of modern royals and public figures. Strong lines, clean finishes, and quiet elegance remain central to timeless style.
Explore the Legacy Yourself
For those who admire Princess Diana’s fashion journey—or simply appreciate thoughtful design—Costelloe’s contributions are essential viewing. The Princess Diana Museum offers digital access to over 2,700 artifacts from Diana’s life, including her collaborations with legendary designers like Paul Costelloe.
You can explore these items from anywhere in the world. Each detail is preserved and presented in a way that brings the garment—and the woman—back to life.
