Elizabeth Debicki’s Rise to Stardom & Diana’s Iconic Leopard Print Holiday Costume from The Crown
Few historical dramas have captivated audiences like Netflix’s The Crown, a series that recreates the reign of Queen Elizabeth II with breathtaking performances, stunning cinematography, and remarkable costume design. One of the most highly anticipated portrayals in Season 5 was that of Diana, Princess of Wales. If you’re wondering who plays Princess Diana in The Crown, the role is taken on by the brilliant Elizabeth Debicki.
Taking on the role of one of the most beloved and scrutinized figures in modern history, Debicki delivered a mesmerizing performance, capturing Diana’s grace, vulnerability, and quiet strength. Her portrayal of Diana in Season 5, Episode 1, "Queen Victoria Syndrome" was a standout moment—especially during her press-covered holiday in Italy, where she wore an elegant and now-iconic leopard print swimming costume.
Now, this screen-matched holiday costume—featuring the leopard print swimsuit and chiffon sarong worn by Elizabeth Debicki as Princess Diana—is available, offering collectors and fans a rare opportunity to own a piece of television history.
Elizabeth Debicki: From Rising Star to Emmy-Winning Actress
Elizabeth Debicki has long been recognized for her elegance, talent, and commanding screen presence, but her portrayal of Princess Diana in The Crown elevated her to new heights.
Debicki’s career began with critically acclaimed performances in films such as The Great Gatsby (2013), where she starred alongside Leonardo DiCaprio and Carey Mulligan, and Widows (2018), directed by Steve McQueen. She further showcased her range in Christopher Nolan’s Tenet (2020), holding her own in a film full of high-concept action and time-bending twists.
However, it was her role as Princess Diana in The Crown that cemented her status as one of the most talented actresses of her generation. Her meticulous attention to Diana’s mannerisms, voice, and quiet defiance captivated audiences, earning her the Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series in 2024 and a nomination in 2023.
The performance of Elizabeth Debicki as Princess Diana was widely praised, with critics and fans noting her uncanny resemblance to Diana and the emotional depth she brought to the role.
Diana’s Iconic Leopard Print Holiday Costume from The Crown
In Season 5, Episode 1, "Queen Victoria Syndrome," Diana and Prince Charles (Dominic West) embark on a holiday in Italy, a trip that, rather than bringing them closer together, highlights the cracks in their marriage. During a tense moment on the yacht, Diana, wearing her leopard print swimming costume, is confronted with Charles’ scheduling conflicts and their differing priorities, setting the tone for their increasingly public separation.
This elegant yet bold ensemble, worn by Elizabeth Debicki as Diana, became one of the most recognizable looks from The Crown’s fifth season, reinforcing Diana’s status as both a fashion icon and a woman seeking independence from the royal institution.
Key Features of Diana’s Screen-Matched Holiday Costume:
- Leopard print swimming costume – screen-matched through the placement of the leopard-print patterning seen on-screen in The Crown.
- Matching leopard print chiffon sarong – featuring a sheer design with a knotted waist detail, adding a touch of elegance and fluidity.
- Worn in the Italy holiday scene, a pivotal moment in the series that reflects Diana’s struggles within the royal family and her desire for autonomy.
- An unforgettable look from The Crown that reflects Diana’s real-life ability to turn any outfit into a global fashion moment.
Why Diana’s Leopard Print Costume Is a Must-Have for Collectors
Throughout Princess Diana’s life, her wardrobe was more than just fashion—it was a statement. Every public appearance, every candid holiday photo, and every press-covered moment told a story about her transformation from a royal outsider to a global icon of compassion and independence.
Her leopard print swimsuit in The Crown perfectly captures this evolution, blending confidence, elegance, and quiet defiance. As one of the most visually striking and screen-matched costumes from the series, it serves as a symbol of Diana’s resilience in the face of an impending storm.
For serious collectors, fans of The Crown, and admirers of Princess Diana, this production-used, screen-matched ensemble is a rare opportunity to own a piece of television and royal history.
For those who appreciate historical drama, royal fashion, and iconic television moments, Diana’s leopard print swimming costume worn by Elizabeth Debicki in The Crown is a once-in-a-lifetime collectible.
Art Imitating Life
The real Princess Diana wore the outfit that inspired this on-screen homage on Necker Island - a private retreat in The Caribbean - whilst on holiday with the young princes, William and Harry, in 1990. The paparazzi frantically snapped photos of Diana strolling on the beach in her animal print on-piece and matching sarong, while the boys played in the sand. Former royal correspondent, Jane Moore, explains how Diana handled the press during this trip and others: "(Diana would) go on holiday and all the media go as well, and then her detectives would come over and go, 'Right, if you leave her alone all week, on "Wednesday" morning, she’ll come on to the beach on the island and you can take some photos.'" Diana also wore a leopard print swimsuit, similar to the one worn by Debicki, whilst on holiday with Dodi Fayed in Saint Tropez in July, 1997 - the famous scene where she addresses the paparazzi from her motorboat.
According to Marie Claire, "the photos of Princess Diana wearing a leopard-print one-piece and matching sarong are some of the most iconic shots of the royal, and decades later, women are still chasing the perfect recreation of her look"
Now Available at Kudos Memorabilia
This original, screen-matched holiday costume worn by Elizabeth Debicki as Diana in The Crown (Season 5, Episode 1) is now available at KudosMemorabilia.com.
With only one in existence, this is your chance to own an iconic piece from the Emmy-winning performance of Elizabeth Debicki, tied to one of the most beloved and influential women of the 20th century.