Princess Diana has been named the greatest female style icon of all time, with her fashion legacy continuing almost three decades after her death.
New research has ranked the late Princess of Wales ahead of some of the world's most influential fashion figures, including Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, Beyoncé and her former daughter-in-law, Catherine, Princess of Wales.
@dianaprincessedegales On this day, August 31st, we mark 28 years since the passing of Princess Diana. A woman who was not only part of the British Royal Family, but who also captured the hearts of people all around the world. 💙 Diana went far beyond titles and protocols. She embraced the most vulnerable with love and empathy: she held orphans in her arms, visited the sick in hospitals, gave a voice to the forgotten, and was never afraid to be close to those who were suffering. Her genuine and human touch made millions see her not just as a princess, but as someone with a generous heart and a compassionate soul. It was this charisma and kindness that gave her such unique notoriety, transforming her into a true icon of hope and humanity. The world loved her because she made everyone feel seen, respected, and valued. Even after 28 years, her light continues to shine, inspiring generations and keeping alive the legacy of love she left behind. 🌟 Diana, the People’s Princess, forever in our hearts. ❤️ . . . #ladydi #ladydiana #royalfamily #princessdiana #princessdianaedit ♬ som original - diana🩷
The survey of 2,000 people in Britain found that almost a third believe Diana remains the ultimate benchmark for timeless fashion.
Diana died aged 36 in a car crash in Paris in 1997, but her influence on fashion has continued long after her death. Her outfits are still regularly referenced, with everything from her casual looks to her more formal dresses inspiring new generations.
@dianixi9 On this day 29 years ago, Diana, Princess of Wales tragically died in a car accident in Paris. 🕊️ #princessdiana #diana #royal #ladydi #iconic ♬ оригинальный звук - ~❤️🩹𝔻𝕚𝕒𝕟𝕚𝕩𝕚❤️🩹~
Marilyn Monroe came second in the rankings, with 22 per cent of respondents choosing the Hollywood star as their top female style icon. Audrey Hepburn came third, receiving 16 per cent of the votes.
Bratislava, Slovakia, Street art, Marilyn Monroe mural. Photo credit: Matt Short Photos, Shutterstock
Diana was followed by Beyoncé, Rihanna, Madonna, Grace Kelly, Jennifer Aniston and Jennifer Lopez.
The Princess of Wales was also recently named Tatler's 'Best Dressed Britain' for 2026, further highlighting the lasting impact of her style.
The research was carried out for British heritage clothing brand Cotton Traders.
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When it came to male style icons, former England football captain David Beckham took the top spot, with one in five respondents choosing him.
He was followed by Elvis Presley, David Bowie, Sean Connery, Freddie Mercury and Brad Pitt.
James Bond cast with Pamela Salem, Sean Connery, and Barbara Carrera during a press launch for 'Never Say Never Again,' 1983. Photo credit: Go My Media, Shutterstock
Diana's position at the top of the female rankings reflects just how influential her fashion choices remain.
From her famous evening gowns to her relaxed jeans and jumpers, her style continues to be referenced and recreated nearly 30 years after her death.
