A summer charity auction in Beverly Hills claims to be the largest ever sale of items from the wardrobe of Diana, Princess of Wales.
The sale, on June 26, at the Peninsula Beverly Hills, will be hosted by Julien’s Auctions, the house that has twice set records for Diana items in recent sales.
In 2023 they sold a 1985 Jacques Azagury evening gown for $1.1 million. Last year a gown by Victor Edelstein worn by Diana realised $910,000.
Diana is a collectible personality on a number of levels.
While all British royals are, Diana is a special case: her extraordinary popularity in life was magnified by her tragic death in a car accident in Paris in 1997.
These Rayne shoes, with handbag, have previously sold for nearly $200,000. Image courtesy of Julien’s Auctions.
She was also a fashion icon.
As Julien’s say: “Her fashion was never just about beauty — it was about meaning. That strength of purpose keeps her relevant today, with a timeless style that continues to captivate, resonate, and connect with audiences around the world.”
The Princess Diana’s Style & A Royal Collection sale will feature more than 200 items associated with Diana and other British royals.
Martin Nolan, Julien’s Co-Founder and Executive Director, said: “This collection is not only the most comprehensive offering of her wardrobe ever presented, but also a tribute to her elegance, grace, glamour, and enduring spirit. Each item is a window into a moment in history.”
Diana’s elegance was immortalised in myriad public appearances. Image courtesy of Julien’s Auctions.
Among the standout Diana items are a 1986 Murray Arbeid midnight blue tulle diamante-star gown that has previously sold for $780,000. It goes into the sale with an estimate of $200,000 to $400,000.
A Catherine Walker black velvet evening gown is predicted to reach up to $200,000, but will also surely go higher, with a $571,500 previous sale in its record.
Another Catherine Walker piece, a pink floral shirt dress, has previously made $444,500, and is expected to bring in at least $100,000 in June.
Catherine Walker was among Diana’s favourite designers. Image courtesy of Julien’s Auctions.
The sale will also feature items associated with Queen Elizabeth II, the Queen Mother, and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor (Edward VIII and Mrs Simpson) alongside royal pieces dating to the 19th century.
The collection is on show in Seattle from May 1 before travelling to Ireland.
A portion of the proceeds from the auction will benefit Muscular Dystrophy UK.
