A dress worn by the beloved Princess Diana has shattered records, becoming the most expensive garment ever sold at auction. The stunning evening gown, designed by Jacques Azagury, fetched an astonishing $1.1 million, surpassing its estimated worth by more than eleven times. This groundbreaking sale, conducted by renowned auction house Julien’s Auctions in Los Angeles, solidifies Princess Diana’s status as a true fashion icon. Despite her untimely passing, her style continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
The exquisite dress, which features a graceful ballerina-length design in black and blue, made its first appearance in 1985 during Diana’s visit to Florence. She later donned it again in 1986 while visiting Vancouver. The gown, accompanied by a matching illustration, was ultimately sold for an astounding $1,148,080, surpassing all expectations. The initial estimate for the dress ranged from $100,000 to $200,000, highlighting the extraordinary global interest and admiration for Diana’s fashion choices.
Julien’s Auctions proudly announced their achievement of setting the record for selling the most expensive dress worn by Princess Diana at auction. The previous record stood at $604,800. This remarkable feat further establishes Julien’s Auctions as the go-to platform for prestigious and highly sought-after fashion items.
The dress itself is a true work of art, boasting a long black velvet bodice adorned with blue stars. Its two-tier blue organza skirt is elegantly embellished with a sash and bow, adding a touch of sophistication to the ensemble. With its unique design and historic connection to Princess Diana, this dress has become a highly coveted collector’s item.
The sale took place as part of the “Hollywood Legends” event organized by Julien’s Auctions in collaboration with Turner Classic Movies (TCM). Spanning four days, the extravaganza showcased a wide array of memorabilia, granting fans and collectors the opportunity to own a piece of Hollywood history.
Alongside the record-breaking dress, another notable item that garnered attention was a pink chiffon blouse worn by Princess Diana for her 1981 engagement portrait with Prince Charles. Created by the renowned David and Elizabeth Emanuel, who also crafted Diana’s iconic wedding gown, the blouse fetched an impressive $381,000, exceeding its estimated value of $80,000 to $100,000. Once again, this sale emphasizes the enduring fascination with Diana’s timeless style.
In addition to providing collectors with a chance to acquire these iconic pieces, the auction served as a powerful reminder of Princess Diana’s lasting influence on fashion. Her timeless elegance, impeccable taste, and ability to transcend trends continue to inspire designers and fashion enthusiasts to this day.
As Princess Diana’s legacy lives on, the record-breaking sale of her dress stands as a testament to the enduring popularity and significance of her fashion choices. Her ability to utilize fashion as a form of self-expression and connection with people has earned her a revered position in the fashion industry. With each auction, her fashion legacy continues to captivate and inspire new generations.
Useful links:
1. Julien’s Auctions – The official website of Julien’s Auctions, where you can explore their upcoming events and browse their collection of iconic pieces.
2. Turner Classic Movies (TCM) – Visit TCM’s website to discover more about their collaboration with Julien’s Auctions and their dedication to preserving and celebrating classic films and Hollywood history.
