There are a few images that come to mind when you think of Diana, Princess of Wales.
In the middle of an epically-sized '80s wedding dress, with a tiara perched against a swept-out bob. A post-divorce Diana in a silver body-hugging Versace gown and a slick hair. With her electric blue eyeliner and a gravity-defying blow-out, shaking hands in a crowd.
The one element all those images have in common is her signature, now-iconic crop.
Ever since the then-19-year-old Lady Diana Spencer stepped into the spotlight as a potential wife for Prince Charles, her close swept-across cut has been firmly in place.
And although she experimented with variations on a theme throughout her life—a little longer, a little more blown-out, a fringe, an editorial pixie—it was clear she preferred to keep things short.
But something fans may not be aware of is that, for a few months, Diana enjoyed a brief love affair with long hair.
Just after welcoming her second son, Prince Harry, in 1984, the new mother let her hair grow out into a shoulder-length cut, which she pinned back around the ears.
And although she returned to her shorter look just weeks later, the few engagements she carried out then are a fascinating look at a Diana without her signature look.
Visiting the Barnados Charity in November 1984.
Visiting Sense in November 1984.
At the Remembrance Ceremony, in November 1984.
Visiting The Royal School for the Blind in December 1984.
At the State Opening Of Parliament in November 1984.
On a royal tour of Canada in July 1983.
And, of course, a young Diana in 1970.
