Photo credit: www.instyle.com

Princess Diana’s Iconic Wardrobe to be Auctioned This June

Princess Diana’s style continues to capture the imagination of fashion enthusiasts and royal admirers alike, and now there’s an opportunity to acquire a piece of her remarkable wardrobe. A significant auction featuring over 200 items from the late Princess of Wales is set to take place, offering a glimpse into her fashion legacy.

According to Vanity Fair, this event will comprise the largest collection of items ever auctioned from Diana’s wardrobe. Titled “Princess Diana’s Style and a Royal Collection,” the auction is scheduled for June 26 at the Peninsula in Beverly Hills. Alongside Diana’s clothing, items from other royals, including Queen Elizabeth and the Queen Mother, will also be available.

“There is a deep emotional connection between the public and the royal family, with Princess Diana being especially beloved,” said Martin Nolan, co-founder and executive director of Julien’s Auctions, speaking to Vanity Fair. “Our audience seeks the chance to own a piece of royal heritage.”

Nolan further described Diana’s fashion sense, highlighting her remarkable ability to select garments that resonated with her audience. “She had a unique understanding of how to present herself, intuitively knowing what outfit would make the most impact in any situation,” he noted.

Many items in the upcoming auction were previously owned by Diana, who famously auctioned 79 pieces of her wardrobe in 1997 in a groundbreaking event that was instigated by Prince William. That auction took place just months before her tragic passing and raised $3.26 million for charity, including organizations such as the AIDS Crisis Trust and the Royal Marsden Hospital’s Cancer Fund. It symbolized Diana’s hopes for a “fresh start” following her divorce from Prince Charles.

“Some of the items in the current auction were originally sold in that 1997 sale, which was conducted for various charities that Diana championed,” Nolan explained. “Back then, some dresses fetched $30,000 to $40,000, but now their estimated values have skyrocketed, with some expected to sell for $800,000 to $1 million.”

Julien’s Auctions has a history of fetching high values for Diana’s items; for instance, a gown worn by her in 1985 sold for $1.14 million in 2023, while a pair of her shoes garnered $390,000 the following year.

“Our decision to curate this auction reflects the incredible demand and record-breaking sales prices for Princess Diana memorabilia and items connected to the royal family,” Nolan commented to Vanity Fair.

Collectors and institutions alike are eyeing the collection, recognizing Diana’s enduring impact on fashion. “The timelessness of her style resonates across generations,” Nolan stated.

Among the notable pieces in the auction is a 1989 floral dress by Bellville Sassoon, referred to as the “caring dress.” This attire was worn frequently by Diana during visits to sick children, as its bright colors helped her connect with young patients, making her appear warm and approachable.

“The dress wasn’t about opulence; it was charming, beautifully tailored, and colorful,” remarked Nolan, underscoring its significance. The auction will also feature more daring pieces, reflecting her evolving identity in the later years of her life. Moreover, personal notes and cards penned in her distinctive handwriting will be included, offering an intimate look at her life.

Ahead of the auction date, the collection will be showcased on a tour starting May 1, which will visit multiple locations, including the Museum of Pop Culture in Seattle and the Museum of Style Icons in Newbridge, Ireland, with a stop planned in London as well.

“We are privileged to uphold her memory and narrate her story through these remarkable pieces that exemplify her elegance, grace, and spirit,” Nolan remarked, as reported by The Mirror.

“This collection represents an unparalleled opportunity to acquire items from her iconic wardrobe, each piece serving as a testament to her legacy and an invitation to reflect on a life that continues to inspire admiration worldwide,” he added.

Source
www.instyle.com