How Princess Diana celebrated her final birthday

New details surrounding how Lady Diana celebrated her final birthday in 1997 have been uncovered, with a renowned designer sharing the story behind one of her most iconic looks.

A year on from her divorce from Prince Charles, Princess Diana celebrated her 36^th birthday on 1 July, 1997, by attending a charity gala at the Tate Gallery, where she was the guest of honour.

Lady Di wore a floor-length beaded black gown by designer Jacques Azagury, which she teamed with an emerald and diamond choker and matching earrings, a set which belonged to the Queen. However, the stunning outfit resulted from a last-minute switch up.

Speaking to Hello UK, Azagury said he gifted the dress to Princess Diana on the morning of her birthday, prompting her to change her outfit for the evening.

“Diana loved [the dress], I believe she had another dress to wear but ended up wearing mine,” Azagury told Hello.

“she was happier than I had ever seen her. There was something about the way she carried herself. A certain new-found confidence.”

Azagury also added that Diana was pushing the royals’ typical fashion habits, wearing a black gown - something usually done in the royal family when they are mourning.

Princess Diana sadly passed away less than two months after her 36^th birthday, on 31 August, 1997.

Prince Harry recently marked what would have been his mother’s 58^th birthday earlier this week by speaking at a mentor summit in London. He spoke about the importance of role models in society who led by example with kindness – a description that perfectly sums up the ‘people’s princess’.