Princess Diana was one of the most beloved icons of the 20th century. Her elegance, beauty, and kindness inspired people all over the world. The news of her untimely death brought the world into a prolonged period of collective mourning.
Her influence is still felt today, which is why she is still often honored in various ways. Whether it’s through her charitable work or her stylish legacy, Princess Diana was truly one of a kind.
One moment that will live on in the hearts of the public forever is the magical night in 1985 when Princess Diana and John Travolta shared a dance at the White House. Dressed to the nines, the pair were a stunning duo as they graciously glided across the dancefloor. The photos from that evening are still just as moving today, more than 35 years on.
The moment was so wonderful as not only did it show the people’s princess in such a carefree and graceful light, but Travolta, who was a major Hollywood heartthrob and star, was so well known for his dancing, that it felt like a unique moment that wouldn’t come around often. Furthermore, even people as famous as Travolta don’t get to dance with a princess every day.
It clearly left an indelible mark on him too, since in a recent interview Travolta went on the record and spoke to Esquire Spain about that night and just how special it was. The interview even prompted the man behind the photograph, Pete Souza, to give his own comment on that fateful night.
On that night in 1985, during a visit to the United States to see then-President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan, Princess Diana was given the opportunity to dance with a true catch: John Travolta. The star of “Saturday Night Fever” and “Grease” had gained a reputation as one of the best dancers around. At the ball at the White House, the pair were photographed dancing in what would become a legendary picture.
Both of them look like they’re on cloud nine and the photos show the talented performer releasing the elegant princess from a spin during a waltz. At the time, fashion magazines and beauty editors everywhere couldn’t stop gushing over how utterly perfect Princess Di’s gown was. It was a rich blue velvet that was so dark as to almost appear black. It featured a classic old Hollywood silhouette, with an off-the-shoulder design that was considered quite daring for a royal at the time.
Outfits and gowns can also represent crucial moments in history and culture. For example, none of us could ever forget the iconic white dress that Marilyn Monroe wore in “The Seven Year Itch.” As the decades go on, these items usually end up in museums, such as Dorothy’s ruby red slippers from “The Wizard of Oz,” which are currently on display at The Smithsonian. Diana’s “Travolta” dress is definitely not different.
“Royal protocol required her to dress very demurely,” explained Lucy Bishop, a vintage fashion expert and auction house professional, according to the Daily Mail. “It was a bold and mature choice for such a young princess.”