When Lady Diana got married When Lady Diana Spencer married Prince Charles on 29 July 1981, the world watched as she transformed into a royal princess in a ceremony steeped in history and tradition. Among the many details that captured global attention, her decision to forgo wearing a tiara from Queen Elizabeth II's collection remains an intriguing chapter of the royal wedding narrative. Instead, Diana walked down the aisle of St.
Paul’s Cathedral wearing her family’s heirloom, the Spencer Tiara—a decision rich in sentiment and significance. Here’s why Diana made this unconventional yet poignant choice. The royal tradition of wearing a tiara In British royal tradition, brides from aristocratic or royal families often wear a tiara on their wedding day as a symbol of their new status.
These tiaras are usually borrowed from the royal collection or family heirlooms, passed down through generations. For Diana, the expectation was no different. As the bride of the Prince of Wales, she had access to Queen Elizabeth II's vast collection of jewellery.
Among the likely options was the Queen Mary’s Lover’s Knot Tiara, a dazzling diamond-and-pearl creation with a history dating back to 1913. Known for its ornate design and association with elegance, the tiara later became one of Diana’s favourite pieces during her royal life. However, she chose not to wear it for her wedding, favouring the Spencer Tiara instead.
Sentimental value of the Spencer tiara The Spencer Tiara.