In a historic event, Julien’s Auctions showcased the largest collection of Princess Diana’s iconic gowns, suits, shoes, handbags, and accessories assembled over 25 years, achieving a 100% sell-through rate. Held on June 27 at The Peninsula Beverly Hills in Los Angeles, California, the auction drew collectors, museum curators, and fans worldwide, with bidders participating online from across the globe.
Record-Breaking Sales
The auction’s highlights included several of Diana’s most famous outfits and accessories, with many items far exceeding their estimates. A Catherine Walker yellow and navy suit worn during her 1989 visit to Hong Kong sold for an astonishing US$325,000 (HK$2.54 million), nearly 11 times its estimate. Another standout was the Rayne violet leather clutch held by Diana during her 1989 Hong Kong visit and her 1992 royal tour in India, which fetched US$88,900 (HK$693,420), 44 times its estimate.
Iconic gowns also captured the audience’s attention. A Victor Edelstein magenta silk and lace flamenco style evening dress worn by Diana in 1987 sold for US$910,000 (HK$7.1 million), while a Murray Arbeid midnight blue strapless tulle diamante star gown worn to the 1986 Phantom of the Opera premiere fetched US$780,000 (HK$6.1 million).
Unforgettable Footwear
Diana’s shoes were among the most sought-after items. Kurt Geiger emerald green satin evening pumps worn to a state banquet in London in 1993 sold for an incredible US$390,000 (HK$3 million), 195 times their estimate. Salvatore Ferragamo violet leather pumps, seen on Diana during her visit to Seville, Spain, in 1992, fetched US$127,000 (HK$990,600).
Philanthropic Legacy
A portion of the auction proceeds will benefit Muscular Dystrophy UK, underscoring Princess Diana’s enduring commitment to charitable causes. Items such as the red Charles Jourdan burgundy leather purse and red Rayne leather heels significantly contributed to this noble cause.
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Collector’s Pride
One of the most prominent buyers was Renae Plant, President of The Princess & The Platypus Foundation and owner of The Princess Diana Museum in Los Angeles. Plant acquired 15 top lots, including the Philip Somerville designed 1985 Australia tour straw hat and yellow and black turban, to be displayed in her museum dedicated to Diana’s life and legacy.
A Lasting Influence
Martin Nolan, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Julien’s Auctions, remarked, “The phenomenal results of today’s historic auction held just a few days before Princess Diana’s birthday demonstrates why Diana is and always will remain one of the world’s most beloved and inspiring cultural figures. These exquisite garments, shoes, and accessories not only made fashion statements but also displayed her warmth and humanity, which made Diana the most popular and greatest Royal style icon of all time.”
For the full list of items sold and more details, visit Julien’s Auctions here.
