In the summer of 2025, one wardrobe item dominates the streets of Spanish cities and the catwalks alike—the slip dress. This elegant and daring piece, reminiscent of lingerie, has become the season’s top hit, appearing in collections from luxury fashion houses to mass-market giants.
However, the current popularity of this dress is a vivid echo of a fashion event nearly thirty years ago. In 1996, Princess Diana caused a sensation by appearing at the Costume Institute Gala (MET Gala) in New York in a dark blue silk slip dress with black lace. The outfit was created by John Galliano for his debut couture collection for Dior.
For Diana, who by then had already divorced Prince Charles, this appearance became an unspoken declaration of independence. The press and fashion critics saw her look as a symbol of a new phase in her life—a newfound freedom, natural elegance, and sensuality unrestrained by royal protocol.
Essentially, the slip dress imitates a camisole or negligee. Its bias cut, thin straps, and lace inserts create a refined yet bold silhouette. Diana’s decision to wear such a piece to an official event was almost revolutionary, blurring the line between intimate apparel and evening wear. This gesture helped popularize a style that defined the ’90s, and which has now returned to the fashion scene in the early 2020s.
In the 1990s, slip dresses were already a symbol of minimalism, associated with the style of supermodels like Kate Moss and grunge icons such as Courtney Love. Today, in 2025, the trend is experiencing a revival. Satin fabrics and lace details dominate the collections of Miu Miu, Chloé, and Saint Laurent. Spanish brands have also embraced the trend, offering their own versions of this dress in a variety of formats: from mini to maxi, in both loose and more structured cuts.
Stylists suggest several ways to adapt this trend for different occasions. A short satin or lace slip dress is ideal for daytime outings and informal gatherings. It can be paired with white sneakers, flat sandals, or even cowboy boots. The look can be completed with a boho-style bag. Midi or maxi versions are a great choice for dinner or evening events. They are best worn with an oversized blazer, kitten heels or mules, and a metallic clutch. Solid-color models—blue, cream, or chocolate brown—are considered key this season.
Current styles are already available in Spanish stores. For example, Zara offers a slip dress with lace details for 79.95 euros. At Massimo Dutti, you can find a long satin lingerie-style dress priced at 89.95 euros.
Princess Diana’s legacy continues to have a profound impact on modern fashion. Her appearance in a navy blue Dior dress is still cited as one of the turning points in her style, becoming a symbol of personal liberation. This connection remains relevant: in 2025, Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, often chooses outfits that pay tribute to Diana’s style, further cementing her status as a timeless fashion icon.
