The iconic midnight blue velvet gown that Princess Diana wore as she danced with John Travolta at the White House in 1985 failed to find a buyer at auction, much to the disappointment of fans and collectors. The off-the-shoulder Victor Edelstein dress, valued at an estimated £250,000-£350,000, did not receive any bids that met the £200,000 minimum required for sale, according to the Kerry Taylor house.
Despite the setback with the ‘Travolta’ dress, two other dresses previously owned by Princess Diana fetched impressive amounts at the auction. A long-sleeved midnight blue velvet dress by Katherine Cusack from 1986 sold for £60,000, double its anticipated price, while a navy wool day dress by Catherine Walker circa 1989 went for £35,000, nearly six times its original estimated value.
The ‘Travolta’ dress, along with other outfits from Princess Diana’s wardrobe, was part of a charity auction in June 1997, shortly before her untimely passing. The enduring fascination with Princess Diana’s style and legacy continues to attract attention and admiration from fashion enthusiasts and royal watchers worldwide.
For more information on Princess Diana’s iconic fashion moments, visit Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar.
