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30 years later, Diana's wedding (and that dress) still captivate

Before Will and Kate's royal wedding extravaganza captured the attention of the world, a real Princess bride -- Princess Diana -- wed Prince Charles in the event of a lifetime. It was 30 years ago today that Prince Charles wed Lady Diana. In the beginning, the story played out in much the same way as Will and Kate's would, decades later: An engagement portrait in which Diana flashed a sapphire an
On July 29, 1981, Charles, Prince of Wales, and his wife, Princess Diana (1961 - 1997), wave to the crowds following their wedding ceremony at St Paul's Cathedral.
On July 29, 1981, Charles, Prince of Wales, and his wife, Princess Diana (1961 - 1997), wave to the crowds following their wedding ceremony at St Paul's Cathedral.Hulton Archive / Getty Images
Diana enters her wedding ceremony at St. Paul's Cathedral in her famous dress, designed by David Emanuel.
Diana enters her wedding ceremony at St. Paul's Cathedral in her famous dress, designed by David Emanuel.- / AFP/Getty Images

Before Will and Kate's royal wedding extravaganza captured the attention of the world, a real Princess bride -- Princess Diana -- wed Prince Charles in the event of a lifetime. 

It was 30 years ago today that Prince Charles wed Lady Diana. In the beginning, the story played out in much the same way as Will and Kate's would, decades later: An engagement portrait in which Diana flashed a sapphire and diamond ring, spectators camped out to catch a glimpse of the royal procession, a bride in an elaborately crafted gown, saying her vows in a massive church (Diana, like Kate, refused to say she'd "obey"), and a balcony kiss. 

Wedding fans in their '80s finery wait to catch a glimpse of the newlyweds.
Wedding fans in their '80s finery wait to catch a glimpse of the newlyweds.Princess Diana Archive / Getty Images

The fairy tale eventually ended in a break-up and then a tragedy, but millions around the globe will never forget watching that wedding -- and that dress. 

Where did you watch Princess Diana's wedding?

Take a look back:

Slideshow: The wedding of Charles and Diana

Slideshow: Princess Diana's life

Prince William gives Kate a pair of Diana's earrings

Princess Diana, alive? she is in the mind of one author

Watch: How Princess Diana shaped William's ideals

Visitors line up to see Kate's wedding dress

Rare photos of Diana and Prince William revealed