Jilly Cooper’s Rivals TV series takes a leaf out of Princess Diana’s style book, signifying the late royal’s enduring fashion legacy

Since the release of photograph stills from Rivals, fans of Dame Jilly Cooper’s Rutshire Chronicles series have eagerly anticipated the Disney+ adaptation which comes to our screens on Friday 18 October.

The cast, starring Emily Atack, Nafessa Williams, Katherine Parkinson and Victoria Smurfit, has undergone a magnificent 80s makeover, which is reminiscent of Princess Diana‘s iconic style.

Set in 1986, this eight-part series dramatises the scandal from Jilly Cooper’s bestselling novel, focusing on the fierce rivalry between Rupert Campbell-Black (Alex Hassell) and Tony Baddingham (David Tennant) in the fictional landscape of independent television. 

Many of the standout outfits draw inspiration from Princess Diana’s wardrobe during that era, showcasing everything from chic country looks to red carpet-worthy attire. 

Many of the standout outfits from Rivals draw inspiration from Princess Diana’s wardrobe during the 80s

Princess Diana was a trendsetter in 80s fashion, effortlessly capturing attention with her outfit choices. 

Whether attending a glamorous gala or enjoying leisure time in the countryside, the royal was always impeccably dressed. 

Her wardrobe included everything from casual wear to designer pieces, championing 80s prints, puff sleeves and power suits. 

Diana often embraced a country chic style, particularly at sporting events or during visits to Sandringham, opting for tartan skirts, tweed suits and wax jackets, with a preference for Barbour’s ‘Burghley’ coat. 

In a similar vein, the cast of Rivals presents outfits that Diana would have surely admired. 

In one image, the leading ladies are seen in quilted and wax jackets paired with corduroy and tartan skirts, with one even accessorising her look with a regal pearl necklace. 

Diana often embraced a country chic style, particularly at sporting events or during visits to Sandringham, opting for tartan skirts, tweed skirt suits and Barbour wax jackets, with a preference for the ‘Burghley’ coat (pictured, left)

Diana wore several striking skirt suits, including a pillar-box red design by Catherine Walker.

This impeccably tailored two-piece featured a slim-fitting blazer with trademark shoulder pads and gold buttons.

Catherine Walker expertly highlighted the Princess’ strengths, using her clothing to convey a message of confidence and professionalism.

Similarly, Nafessa Williams, who plays Cameron Cook, a powerful TV executive, dons a power suit reminiscent of Diana’s style.

Emily Atack, portraying Sarah Stratton, appears to draw inspiration from the royal aesthetic, too. 

She showcases a printed blouse paired with a high-waisted pencil skirt, much like one of Diana’s signature ensembles from 1983.

Diana wore several striking skirt suits, including a pillar-box red design by Catherine Walker. Similarly, Nafessa Williams, who plays Cameron Cook, a powerful TV executive in Rivals, dons a power suit reminiscent of Diana’s style

Emily Atack, portraying Sarah Stratton, appears to draw inspiration from the royal look as well. She showcases a printed blouse paired with a high-waisted pencil skirt, much like one of Diana’s signature ensembles from 1983

Elsewhere, Victoria Smurfit radiates glamour in a gown inspired by the Princess for her role as Maud O’Hara.

Diana famously wore a comparable dress by Graham Wren when she attended a concert at the Barbican Centre with Prince Charles in 1982. 

Although Victoria’s version has a racier twist, the emerald green silk taffeta is clearly suggestive of the royal’s iconic style. 

Meanwhile, Katherine Parkinson, portraying Lizzie Vereker, opts for a charming tea dress paired with Wellington boots. 

This look echoes a blue and floral frock worn by Diana, designed by Donald Campbell, during a visit to Brisbane in 1983. 

Victoria Smurfit radiates glamour in a gown inspired by Princess Diana for her role as Maud O’Hara. While Victoria’s version has a racier twist, the emerald green silk taffeta is clearly suggestive of Diana’s iconic style

Katherine Parkinson, portraying Lizzie Vereker, opts for a charming tea dress paired with Wellington boots. This look echoes an almost identical blue and floral frock worn by Diana, designed by Donald Campbell, during a visit to Brisbane in 1983

Rivals is another example of the many fashion inspirations drawn from Diana’s enduring legacy.

The late royal continues to influence everyone from style enthusiasts to modern royalty, such as Kate and Meghan, with her timeless outfits.

The next time you don a puffed sleeve blouse or embrace power dressing, remember to thank Princess Diana for paving the way.