In February 1989, Princess Diana made her first official trip overseas without Prince Charles. During her three-day trip to New York City, the then-27 year old Princess attended cocktail parties and black-tie events, spoke with New Yorkers in need, and wore some iconic outfits. The Crown recreates the visit for the show's fourth season, but here take a look back at her real-life trip in photos.
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February 1, 1989
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After her arrival on the Concorde jet, Princess Diana attended a cocktail party for Dawson International, a British clothing company. The event was held at The Equitable Center, and the Princess wore a violet and black outfit by Catherine Walker, one of her favorite designers.
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February 1, 1989
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The Princess flashed a wide grin upon her arrival.
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February 2, 1989
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The next day, Diana visited the Henry Street Settlement on the Lower East Side. The nonprofit organization provides social services, education, and healthcare to some of New York's underserved residents.
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February 2, 1989
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The Princess wore a pink and black Catherine Walker suit, paired with pearl earrings, and her trademark blue eyeliner.
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February 2, 1989
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At Henry Street, the Princess was joined by Matilda Cuomo, the former First Lady of New York and mother to Andrew and Chris Cuomo. The pair played with some of the children at the Lower East Side center.
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February 2, 1989
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Later that day, Diana had some fun at iconic FAO Schwarz toy store. Here, she was photographed, fittingly, in the store's British-themed section.
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February 2, 1989
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That night, Diana had her own pseudo-Cinderella moment in a white, embellished Victor Edestein gown with a matching bolero. The Princess attended a gala dinner at World Financial Center's Winter Garden.
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February 2, 1989
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The gala benefited the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) and, reportedly cost $1,000 per ticket. According to The New York Times, the upper echelons of New York society came out in full force for the event, including individuals with the last names of Astor, Rockefeller, and Kissinger. Then-Mayor Edward I. Koch spoke and, yes, Donald Trump attended with his then-wife, Ivana.
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February 3, 1989
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The next day, Diana visited the AIDS unit of Harlem Hospital. The Princess was so moved seeing the patients, that she unexpectedly picked up and hugged a 7-year-old patient. Diana was passionate about ending the stigma surrounding AIDS, especially the misconception at the time that it could be transmitted through casual contact.
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February 3, 1989
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The Princess wore a red Catherine Walker skirt suit paired with a white, collarless button-up shirt.
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February 3, 1989
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Diana left New York that evening on the Concorde, concluding her quick, solo visit.