Princess Diana’s Iconic Wardrobe Up for Auction
The upcoming auction, titled “Princess Diana’s Style and a Royal Collection,” promises a rare opportunity to own a piece of royal history with over 200 garments and accessories from the late Princess of Wales. Scheduled for June 26, the auction will be held at the Peninsula Hotel in Beverly Hills and is organized by Julien’s Auctions.
A Collection of Royal Treasures
In addition to Princess Diana’s clothing, the auction will feature items from Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, and other royal family members, highlighting a rich history spanning over a century.
Insights from Julien’s Auctions
According to Martin Nolan, co-founder and executive director of Julien’s Auctions, the public has a deep affection for the royal family, particularly Princess Diana. Nolan remarked, “People have a love affair with the royal family. They have a love affair with Princess Diana, especially.” This sentiment is what drives the auction’s popularity.
Diana’s Impactful Fashion Choices
Nolan emphasized Princess Diana’s remarkable ability to read the room, stating, “She knew how to dress, and when to dress, and she could read the room and know what would be appreciated most.” Many of the garments to be auctioned are sourced from Diana’s friends and colleagues, featuring some that she sold herself during a notable Christie’s auction in 1997, which was inspired by Prince William’s suggestion to help support various charities.
A Legacy of Giving
The 1997 auction raised an impressive $3.26 million for the AIDS Crisis Trust and the Royal Marsden Hospital’s Cancer Fund. The original values of some dresses sold then ranged between $30,000 and $40,000, whereas now similar pieces are anticipated to sell for significantly higher amounts, with estimates as high as $1 million.
Nolan reflected on the changing value of Diana’s garments, highlighting the increasing demand for royal memorabilia. He stated, “We curated this auction partly because of the world-record prices we’re getting for Princess Diana items and the royal family in general.”
Featured Items in the Upcoming Auction
- A 1989 Bellville Sassoon floral day dress, known as the “caring dress,” which Diana donned on several hospital visits, aiming to lift the spirits of young patients.
- Exclusive personal items, including handwritten notes and cards that captured her distinctive style and warmth.
- Distinct cocktail dresses representing her newfound independence in the later years of her life.
Nolan remarked on the floral dress’s significance, explaining that “it wasn’t a very ostentatious gown. It was just a very beautiful, colorful, nicely fitted dress.”
Touring the Collection
Before the auction, the collection will embark on a tour starting May 1, visiting the Museum of Pop Culture in Seattle and the Museum of Style Icons in Newbridge, Ireland, with a subsequent stop in London. Nolan expressed his commitment to preserving Diana’s legacy through these highlighted pieces, stating, “We are honored to continue to preserve her legacy, telling her story through the pieces that defined her elegance, grace, glamour, and spirit.”
Conclusion
This auction not only offers a glimpse into the wardrobe of one of history’s most beloved figures but also serves as a reminder of her lasting impact. As Nolan aptly summarized, “This collection is the most significant offering of her wardrobe ever presented at auction, each item a window into a moment in history and a tribute to a woman whose humility and style and personal warmth continues to inspire the world.”