David Sassoon, the British fashion designer famous for his sophisticated couture and changing Princess Diana’s style in her early years as a royal, died on April 9, 2025, at the age of 92. As the co-founder of the fashion house Bellville Sassoon, Sassoon influenced British fashion for over fifty years, outfitting the world’s royalty, celebrities, and society ladies.
Heritage and Craftsmanship
David Sassoon was born on October 5, 1932, in Highbury, London, the son of Iraqi Jews. David initially wanted to pursue a career in acting, but ultimately went in his family’s direction of fashion, going on to study at the Royal College of Art. In 1958, he joined Belinda Bellville’s salon, and by 1970, Bellville and Sassoon were in a partnership and renamed the firm Bellville Sassoon. Sassoon’s designs embodied the high society ethos of elegance and sophistication. He had notable clients such as Princess Margaret, Audrey Hepburn, Jackie Kennedy, and Elizabeth Taylor.
The Royal Element: Dressing Princess Diana
David’s most notable client was Diana, Princess of Wales. Their initial working relationship began in 1981, when Diana, then Lady Diana Spencer, visited the salon in search of an outfit for her engagement announcement to Prince Charles. Although the visit was unplanned and somewhat intimidating for her, she soon returned with her mother and commissioned her “going-away outfit” for the wedding — a peach silk dress with a white ruffled collar. Over the years, David designed more than seventy pieces that would become iconic among the many celebrated Princess Diana outfits, guiding her transformation from a timid aristocrat to a global fashion icon. Sassoon’s romantic silhouettes, delicate fabrics, and thoughtful embellishments helped shape Diana’s evolving public image, with standout creations including a flamboyant red gown for the 1981 James Bond premiere and a pale blue chiffon evening gown worn to a V&A gala.
A Designer of Discretion and Innovation
David was known for his discretion and understanding of royal protocol; he would often refer to Diana as ‘Miss Buckingham’ as a way to keep things undercover. Sassoon had a unique style that mixed a sense of timeless elegance with a contemporary twist. In addition to his couture work, Sassoon branched out into ready-to-wear collections and collaborated with Vogue Patterns in an attempt to democratise his designs.
Sassoon’s Broader Impact on British Fashion
Beyond his work with royalty, Sassoon played a crucial role in preserving the tradition of British couture at a time when mass-market fashion was on the rise. His designs bridged the gap between old-world craftsmanship and modern-day wearability, ensuring that bespoke fashion remained relevant. Through mentoring young designers and maintaining a consistent presence in London’s elite fashion circles, Sassoon helped London remain a key global capital for couture innovation well into the 21st century.
Remembering the Contributions of a Fashion Icon
David Sassoon’s contribution to fashion was previously honoured in exhibitions such as “The Glamour of Bellville Sassoon,” and in a sense, his designs continue to be documented and celebrated. His legacy may end with his passing, but the elegance he brought to British fashion — and the iconic images of Princess Diana — will never fade.
