Jayne Fincher/Getty ImagesTribute capsule collections are a tricky thing.
How does a brand really capture the legacy of a fashion icon without distilling what exactly made him or her special in the first place? So when mega e-tailer ASOS recently launched a Princess Diana-inspired line with WAH London's Sharmadean Reid, we were apprehensive to say the least.
Ranging from a velvet mini interpretation that clearly was inspired by the Christina Stambolian-designed, off-the-shoulder dress she wore to Serpentine Gallery in 1994 to more obvious associations like a tartan phone case and gold "Princess" bracelet, these 19 pieces are a modern-day homage to a trailblazer of her time.
The question is: Do they do her justice? We think so—here's why.
It's Fashion for the People: We tend to respect couture designers like Hedi Slimane when they pay tribute to their heroes (David Bowie very much inspired Slimane's slim Saint Laurent tuxedos)—there's an expectation of quality and design. However, when fast-fashion brands do this, there's some doubt: Did they do this to actually pay tribute to a legend or make money off their legacy? Well, Diana wasn't called the "People's Princess" for nothing. An affordable collection, with a broader customer base, makes sense for the popular royal. Though, if she were alive, she probably would've advocated for more sustainable and ethical fashion.
She Shouldn't Be Forgotten: Every time Diana stepped out, what she was wearing made headlines, kind of like Kate Middleton or even It Girls like Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner now. Unfortunately, today's youth may not remember her impact on fashion. This capsule collection is a good reminder of how the princess turned preppy, late ‘80s and early ‘90s style on its head with sophisticated edge—something trendy girls everywhere will appreciate.
This Line Embodies Current Trends: Love or hate it, ‘90s style is in. Throwback threads are everywhere. In its heyday, Diana was leading the celeb style pack, so it makes sense that during a trend resurgence, her style would inspire again.
Haven't seen the capsule collection yet? Click through to see every piece, then tell us: Do you like ASOS' Princess Diana-inspired line?