It was August 31, 1997, when Princess Diana lost her life in a tragic vehicle collision in the Pont de l'Alma tunnel in Paris . Twenty-nine years have passed since then, yet the memory of the princess—an empathetic woman who defied convention, vulnerable yet rebellious, and imbued with a profound humanity—remains vivid and very much alive in the eyes of the entire world.
This is evidenced by the countless projects and initiatives that have emerged over these nearly three decades to honor her memory and carry on her charitable work in support of important social causes. Her figure, her essence, and her story continue to be a source of inspiration and admiration, so much so that on November 7, 2026, an exhibition aimed at recounting the princess’s life through more than 700 original items that belonged to her will open at at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, California .
Diana, Princess of Wales and president Ronald Reagan at the White House in Washington, DC, November 1985.
Princess Diana: Love Life Legacy — A Life of Giving, is the result of a collaboration between the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute (RRPFI) and the Princess Diana Museum. The latter was founded by Renae Plant, a longtime admirer of the princess who, over the years, has collected numerous memorabilia—including dresses, jewelry, and personal items belonging to Lady Diana—that until now have been viewable only through digital tours.
“It’s been my dream for it to be seen in public so people can see her life and legacy up close,” Plant told People , referring to her extensive collection of memorabilia that has grown over the years. “It’s so incredible to get these pieces back together and to see it come to life after all these years for the public.”
The exhibition will be on view for through May 31, 2027, and will be displayed alongside items from the archival collection of Ronald Reagan and Nancy Reagan. It's a special pairing that aims to tell the story of the Princess of Wales while also highlighting the transatlantic bond between the United States and the United Kingdom.
Visitors should expect to view many of the princess’s personal items, most acquired by Plant via auctions and private sales. The show includes handwritten letters, childhood treasures, historical documents, and, of course, jewelry and some of the most famous pieces from her wardrobe—those that in some way defined her style and have become memorable pieces over time.