I Found Modern Versions of Princess Diana's Classic Looks at Zara

Getty/Tom Wargacki
Getty/Tom Wargacki
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Princess Diana has remained a subject of fascination in fashion circles long after her unfortunate passing, and for good reason. The princess often subverted conventional dressing standards to create refreshingly cool, effortlessly elegant, and head-turning looks, whether she was dropping off her sons at school, attending the Met Gala, or posing on the red carpet at a movie premiere. And of course, I'd be remiss not to mention her iconic revenge dress, which is forever etched in my mind.

The Princess of Wales gave us many fashion moments to live for, so to honor that legacy, I set out to find lookalike or contemporary items inspired by some iconic Diana looks. Zara has several affordable styles you can combine into incredibly chic looks that live up to her sartorial standards. Scroll on for our favorite picks.

Sweet Revenge: Bustier Dress
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Sweet Revenge: Bustier Dress

Princess Diana often defied royal dress protocol, but she always did so in an elegant and empowering way. In June 1994, she wore an off-the-shoulder, form-fitting, black silk dress that has become known as the "revenge dress," and has gone down as one of the most iconic fashion moments of all time. We couldn't quite find the perfect Zara match, but this Bustier Dress ($199) is just as sultry, elegant, and feminine.

A Casual Affair: Poplin Shirt and Mom Jeans
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A Casual Affair: Poplin Shirt and Mom Jeans

The princess had plenty of casual fashion moments that were just as documented as her formal appearances. On occasion, she could be spotted in jeans and a white shirt, so you can channel that same spirit with this relaxed Poplin Shirt ($36), paired with your favorite Mom Fit Jeans ($46).

For the Love of Pearls: Pearl Appliqué Knit Sweater
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For the Love of Pearls: Pearl Appliqué Knit Sweater

This Pearl Appliqué Knit Sweater ($50) blends two things the princess loved to wear: pearl-embellished gowns and preppy sweaters. Who can forget her "Elvis look" designed by Catherine Walker? Turns out, the head-to-toe pearl gown is currently on view at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

Off-Duty Days: Jacquard Sweater and Plaid Leggings
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Off-Duty Days: Jacquard Sweater and Plaid Leggings

Continuing the theme of casual, the princess had a thing for prints and bold colors, which was apparent through many of her off-duty looks. Today's contemporary take on a classic look would include this Jacquard Sweater ($46), which you can style with modernized versions of pedal pushers and these Plaid Leggings ($36). She also helped popularize rugby polo shirts, and we found a practical and stylish option in this Zippered High Collar Sweater ($50).

Suited Up: Buttoned Textured Weave Blazer
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Suited Up: Buttoned Textured Weave Blazer

Princess Diana loved a suit moment, whether it was a matching houndstooth set, a pinstripe pick, or a tweed ensemble. This Buttoned Textured Weave Blazer ($119) will make you feel like a trendsetter just like she was — pair it with a matching skirt for maximum impact. If you're feeling brave, opt for this off-white Jewel Button Cropped Blazer ($90) with a matching skirt or trousers.

Look Back at It: Open Back Dress
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Look Back at It: Open Back Dress

Even her more conservative ensembles sometimes had an element of surprise. At the 1985 premiere of a James Bond movie, she wore a glitter gown with an open back, and you can re-create a similar silhouette with this embellished Open Back Dress ($199).

A Slip Moment: Draped Dress
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A Slip Moment: Draped Dress

Did Princess Diana ever wear a slip dress? You bet! Just remember her navy-blue, full-length Dior slip dress, which she wore to the 1996 Met Gala. This Draped Dress ($50) is a bright and equally seductive alternative.

Chic City Day: Knit Mock Neck Sweater
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Chic City Day: Knit Mock Neck Sweater

You can emulate one of Princess Diana's classic off-duty looks with a Knit Mock Neck Sweater ($36) paired with High-Waisted Trousers ($46) and finished with an oversize Blazer ($70), a belt, and Oxford loafers. I mean, can we say effortlessly chic?