Outfits and accessories, curated under “Princess Diana’s Elegance & A Royal Collection” is set to be auctioned online by Julien’s, the renowned Hollywood auction house, on June 27.
According to Martin Nolan, executive director of Julien’s Auctions, Princess Diana made a fashion statement every time she stepped out. The yellow suit, designed by Catherine Walker, is estimated to fetch up to $50,000, while a midnight blue star-embellished tulle gown she wore to the 1986 “Phantom of the Opera” premiere is expected to bring in $400,000.
Visitors to the exhibit, which opened on Thursday, had the opportunity to explore the history behind each outfit. Recalling Diana’s visit to Hong Kong in 1989, elderly shopper surnamed Fung said, “Diana was charismatic, caring and devoted to charity. That’s why a lot of Hong Kongers respected her.”
Other notable items in the exhibit include a silk and lace evening dress designed by Victor Edelstein and a pink floral Catherine Walker dress worn by Diana in 1991 during a bedside vigil for a close friend.
Martin Nolan described these pieces as “tangible assets and great conversation pieces,” highlighting Diana’s enduring relatability even decades after her tragic death. Last year, Julien’s Auctions sold one of Diana’s evening dresses for $1.14 million, indicating continued interest from collectors.
For younger generations, Diana remains a significant figure in pop culture, possibly influenced by Netflix’s series “The Crown.” The exhibit, according to experts, has the ability to intertwine fashion and history, suggesting a resurgence of Diana’s style in contemporary fashion trends.
(With agency inputs)