ROYAL EXHIBITION EXPANDED: A Panorama of Princess

LONG BEACH, Calif., Oct. 3, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month the Queen Mary's premier attraction Diana: Legacy of A Princess, curated by the Pink Ribbons Crusade, will be expanded. Beginning October 11, the revitalized exhibit will present nineteen garments worn by Princess Diana. For a limited time, fashion that captured the world's attention will again be on public display.



The elaborate Diana gallery chronicles the House of Windsor's public and private lives, from personal artifacts and family heirlooms to newspaper articles, photographs and more. Princess Diana changed the face of British royalty forever and appropriately takes center stage in this inspired collection. The expanded showcase is a panorama of fashion worn by Diana from 1980 to 1995 – an ode to the woman whose charitable spirit, grace and compassion endeared and inspired.



The limited time exhibit will feature:

• The crushed-velvet Bruce Oldfield gown chosen for the 1986 official royal portrait
• The Grace Kelly-inspired Catherine Walker gown that lit up the red carpet at the 1987 Cannes Film Festival
• The modern Catherine Walker creation that perfectly paired with the Spencer Family Tiara for the 1991 Official Tour of India
• The short Versace black dress worn to the 1995 Apollo 13 Premiere - representative of the new look Princess Diana embraced during her final years
• Other iconic pieces worn by Princess Diana…

"The presentation of mementos from a life lived on the global stage by the woman of her times is both historically significant and befitting of the Queen Mary and its legacy as a maritime and cultural icon." said Steve Sheldon, Queen Mary, Director of Special Events.



In further acknowledgement of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Queen Mary and Pink Ribbons Crusade will host Runway Alive in Pink, a Charity Fashion Show - October 12 – to benefit Breast Cancer Angels of Southern California. Modeling clothes by well-known fashion houses and vintage pieces from Princess Diana's favorite designers will be Crystal Lee - Miss California 2013, Leah Cecil - Miss California 2012, fellow titleholders, and local breast cancer survivors. 



MEDIA PREVIEW:   An exclusive media preview and reception for the Diana Exhibit Re-Launch will be held on Friday, October 11 from 7-9PM.  To RSVP please contact  j.felix@freemanmccue.com .  More information at: Royal Relaunch . 



DETAILS: "Diana: Legacy of a Princess" is open daily. For hours and more information, visit http://www.queenmary.com

Runway Alive in Pink on October 12th includes a sit-down luncheon, fashion show, designer boutiques, silent auction, gift bag, free parking and admission to "Diana: Legacy of a Princess."  Prices range from $99-$200.  For more information, visit Runway Alive In Pink Fashion Show .



About the Queen Mary 

Located in the Port of Long Beach, the Queen Mary features a rich maritime history, authentic Art Deco décor, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Long Beach city skyline. At the time of her maiden voyage in May of 1936, she was considered the grandest ocean liner ever built. The Queen Mary features award-winning restaurants, historical attractions, numerous special event salons and 314 staterooms. The Diana: Legacy of a Princess exhibition will be showcased in a specially-designed 9,000 square foot gallery on the ship's Sun Deck.  For more information or for reservations, see www.queenmary.com or call (800) 437-2934.



About Pink Ribbons Crusade

Pink Ribbons Crusade is a 501(c)(3) total-volunteer organization which raises funds for Breast Cancer prevention and awareness.  It does so with its traveling exhibit that features the world's largest private collection of Princess Diana Dresses plus a fabulous array of British Royal historical memorabilia. Founded in early 2000, it is a Texas-based charity consisting of a small band of volunteers who believe in continuing Diana's charitable lead of giving back, expecting no reward, and making a significant difference in the world in which we live. Visit: http://www.dianadresses.org/

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About Breast Cancer Angels of Southern California

Proceeds from the event will benefit Breast Cancer Angels, a well-respected Southern California charity which helps with the many needs of Breast Cancer patients and survivors struggling with bills, medical needs, legal matters, and family responsibilities. Founded in 2000, this 501(c)(3) is extremely unique since it operates with less than 3% administrative fees. To learn more about this outstanding "grassroots" organization, visit www.breastcancerangels.org .

MEDIA CONTACT: Johanna Felix, j.felix@freemanmccue.com , (860) 655- 4221

A photo accompanying this release is available at:
http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=21361

Johanna Felix (860) 655- 4221