Depending on how you’re feeling about the possibility of a Donald J. Trump administration, it can be soothing to remember the halcyon administration of our 40th President. Sure, things weren’t perfect back then, but nostalgia has a funny way of making the past feel a lot classier than the current political climate.
Supporting this line of reasoning are a set of photographs taken at a 1985 state dinner welcoming Princess Diana of Wales, newly wed to Prince Charles. Courtesy of Mashable, the photos reveal a charming young woman who was probably a little nervous as she danced with President Reagan, John Travolta, Clint Eastwood, Tom Selleck, and possibly every guest in the White House except Prince Charles.
After accidentally introducing Princess Diana as “David,” the President appears to be struggling to orient himself to his surroundings. At least Diana seems to having a pleasant time.
But the next dance goes downhill, as the Princess is laser-focused on Tom Selleck’s pocket square while pretending that Magnum P.I. is not sniffing her hair with gusto.
Following that, Selleck is absolutely delighted by the First Lady (and her aromatic hair), while Diana appears as relaxed as anybody can while locked in the steely embrace of Clint Eastwood.
Finally, Diana gets the dancefloor partner she needs in John Travolta. The star of Saturday Night Fever and Grease provides the necessary moves and insouciance to put the Princess at ease. Meanwhile, Prince Charles supports his wife by pleasantly ignoring her from the side of the room.