How Diana first gave the leather look a leg-up – and cleared the way for a new generation of racy royals, as these pictures show…

    Princess Diana showed off striking leather trousers at Her Majesty's Theater in 1987

    We are used to seeing royal women in formal skirts, expensive gowns or, occasionally, even jeans.

    But even today, leather is likely to raise a few eyebrows.

    It was Princess Diana who first took the lead when she wore bright red pants during a theater outing in 1987.

    Since then, leather has slowly and stylishly infiltrated royal wardrobes…

    Diana, Princess of Wales

    Princess Diana showed off striking leather trousers at Her Majesty's Theater in 1987

    The princess watched a performance of Phantom of the Opera

    The princess watched a performance of Phantom of the Opera

    Princess Diana made a memorable entrance to Her Majesty’s Theater in 1987 – thanks to her striking leather trousers

    Always one to break the mold, Princess Diana made a memorable entrance to Her Majesty’s Theater in the West End in 1987 – thanks to her statement leather trousers.

    For a performance of Phantom of the Opera, the royal teamed her vibrant trousers with a voluminous bomber jacket, showcasing her signature style.

    Queen Letizia of Spain

    Queen Letizia of Spain has taken her Hugo Boss leather pants three times.  Above: During a trip to Barcelona in November 2022

    Queen Letizia of Spain has taken her Hugo Boss leather pants three times.  Above: During a trip to Barcelona in November 2022

    Queen Letizia of Spain has taken her Hugo Boss leather pants three times. Above: During a trip to Barcelona in November 2022

    These Hugo Boss trousers are an indispensable part of Queen Letizia’s wardrobe and have been worn by her three times.

    They are made from genuine leather, have a flattering high waist and slim, cropped legs.

    The rich berry shade provides a welcome pop of color, without being too striking.

    Meghan, Duchess of Sussex

    Meghan Markle wowed in skin-tight leather pants at a 2016 Suits event in New York

    Meghan Markle wowed in skin-tight leather pants at a 2016 Suits event in New York

    Meghan Markle wowed in skin-tight leather pants at a 2016 Suits event in New York

    Meghan Markle is known for her appreciation of leather in its various forms, ranging from motorcycle jackets to pencil skirts.

    In 2016, she wowed at a Suits event in New York wearing skin-tight leather pants.

    She completed her polished ensemble with nude lace-up sneakers and a pop of red lipstick.

    Charlene, Princess of Monaco

    Princess Charlene showed off her edgy flair in Philip Plein pants at the 2017 Princess Grace Awards gala

    Princess Charlene showed off her edgy flair in Philip Plein pants at the 2017 Princess Grace Awards gala

    Princess Charlene showed off her edgy flair in Philip Plein pants at the 2017 Princess Grace Awards gala

    Princess Charlene of Monaco showcased her sharp flair at the 2017 Princess Grace Awards gala.

    For the occasion, the royal family opted for Philip Plein trousers made of artificial leather, a bustier with a Prince of Wales check and classic pumps.

    To complete her outfit, she draped a double-breasted blazer over her shoulders.

    Princess Eugenie

    Princess Eugenie oozed glamor as she arrived at Casa Cruz restaurant in Notting Hill in 2020

    Princess Eugenie oozed glamor as she arrived at Casa Cruz restaurant in Notting Hill in 2020

    Princess Eugenie oozed glamor as she arrived at Casa Cruz restaurant in Notting Hill in 2020

    After hiring stylist Olivia Buckingham, Princess Eugenie quickly turned into a style expert.

    The royal showed off her new glamor during an excursion in Notting Hill in 2020.

    Her outfit consisted of faux leather leggings, which turned out to be perfect for the chic location of Casa Cruz restaurant.

    Queen Maxima of the Netherlands

    Queen Máxima lived up to her style reputation during the NLgroeit meeting at Centraal Beheer

    Queen Máxima lived up to her style reputation during the NLgroeit meeting at Centraal Beheer

    Queen Máxima lived up to her style reputation during the NLgroeit meeting at Centraal Beheer

    Loved for her bold fashion choices, Queen Maxima of the Netherlands did not disappoint in this plum-colored ensemble.

    She paired a Zara polka dot blouse with cropped leather pants and completed the look with suede pumps for a 2019 gathering.

    Zara Tindal

    Zara Tindall paired tight leather pants with a suede trench coat for a visit to the races in April

    Zara Tindall paired tight leather pants with a suede trench coat for a visit to the races in April

    Zara Tindall paired tight leather pants with a suede trench coat for a visit to the races in April

    Zara Tindall was the epitome of chic during a recent visit to Cheltenham Racecourse.

    Princess Anne’s daughter opted for tight leather pants, combined with a suede trench coat from Fairfax and Favor.

    To add a touch of sophistication, she paired with a Camilla Rose Millinery headband, LK Bennett boots and an Aspinal of London bag, resulting in an impeccable aesthetic.

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