Manila, Philippines — Princess Diana, forever an icon of elegance and timeless fashion, is once again making her mark on the style scene with a trend that is sweeping through 2023: silver shoes. While her influence on fashion has been widely recognized, her little-known penchant for silver footwear is now taking center stage in today’s fashion landscape.

Photo: Diana Archive / Getty Images
Photo: Tom Wargacki

Long before the metallic shoe trend became a hit in 2023, Princess Diana was already embracing the allure of silver shoes in the ’80s and ’90s. Behind the scenes of her iconic ensembles, the Princess of Wales was quietly setting a style precedent that has now resurfaced with a modern twist.

Photo: Tim Graham / Getty Images
Photo: Anwar Hussein / Getty Images

Diana’s choice of silver shoes was a versatile and strategic move that showcased her fashion-forward thinking. From her early days as the “Shy Di” to her later years as a confident style maven, Diana consistently demonstrated the power of silver footwear. Whether she was attending events, embarking on royal tours, or gracing the red carpet, she knew that silver shoes could effortlessly complement any outfit.

Photo: Tim Graham / Getty Images

One of her signature looks featured a closed pump with a sensible heel, which she expertly paired with various ensembles. Notably, during her tour of Australia in 1983, Diana proved that silver shoes were the ultimate accessory, seamlessly matching them with outfits of different colors and styles. This simple yet impactful styling choice emphasized her understanding of fashion’s ability to transcend time and trends.

Photo: Anwar Hussein / Getty Images

Diana’s influence extended beyond the closed-toe pump, as she also embraced the slingback style. Collaborating with renowned designer Jimmy Choo in the 1990s, Diana adorned her feet with an array of silver shoe designs. With pointed toes and high heels, these glamorous choices showcased her flair for balancing elegance with a touch of glamour.

Photo: Diana Archive / Getty Images

Yet it was the memorable “Dynasty Di” look that epitomized Diana’s affinity for silver footwear. The iconic silver pleated Bruce Oldfield dress she wore to the premiere of the James Bond film “A View to a Kill” in 1985 left a lasting impression. Paired with, of course, silver heels, the ensemble solidified her as a trendsetter and fashion visionary.

Photo: Tim Graham / Getty Images

As the silver shoe trend gains momentum in 2023, Princess Diana’s legacy continues to inspire modern interpretations. Her masterful coordination of silver shoes with various outfits reflects her understanding of the intrinsic link between accessories and self-expression. From the understated elegance of her early days to the confidence of her later years, Diana’s choice of silver footwear symbolizes her enduring influence on fashion and her ability to effortlessly set trends that transcend eras.

In celebrating Princess Diana’s style secret, we not only pay homage to her impeccable taste but also acknowledge her role as a timeless fashion muse whose influence continues to shape the way we express ourselves through clothing and accessories. Just as Diana confidently adorned her feet with silver, we can embrace this trend with the knowledge that we are following in the footsteps of a true style icon.