A Catherine Walker silk taffeta gown worn by Diana.

“Diana: Legacy of a Princess” offers a rare look into the lives of Princess Diana and British royal family members who sailed the storied Queen Mary ship, now stationed in Long Beach. More than 2,000 pieces of personal and iconic memorabilia encompass the exhibit aboard the Queen Mary, and the contents captivate as only the royal family can.

Famous clothing worn by Princess Di, including the floral-print silk taffeta gown she donned in 1988 for Australian’s bicentennial celebration and also for a Crocodile Dundee premiere, is featured alongside frocks from her daughter-in-law Kate Middleton. For younger Windsor enthusiasts, Middleton’s notorious see-through runway dress said to have first sparked Prince William's interest, and the blue Issa dress worn for her engagement announcement, are must-sees.

The inventory, which took almost 30 years to compile, also focuses on priceless artifacts and family mementos such as handwritten letters from major royals, a boxed piece of Prince William’s christening cake, and menus from exquisite palace dinners. A newly minted tea room and a gift boutique complete the British cultural experience.

Slated to run indefinitely, the exhibition comes courtesy of non-profit breast cancer awareness organization, Pink Ribbons Crusade, who in partnership with The Queen Mary, acquired many of the showcased items from private collectors. In keeping with the Princess' philanthropic priorities, a portion of ticket sales will go to benefit cancer, diabetes, and HIV/AIDS research through City of Hope. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach  877-342-0738