The famous black silk gown worn by Princess Diana in June 1994, widely known as the "revenge dress," will embark on a global tour next week before being sold at auction by Sotheby's in New York.
The iconic garment will be exhibited to the public at the Sotheby's London location starting September 18. From there, the dress will travel to the auction house's branches in Hong Kong and Geneva, before reaching its final destination in Manhattan.
The dress is scheduled to be auctioned in New York on December 9. The starting price for the piece, created by Greek designer Christina Stambolian, is estimated to be between $150,000 and $300,000.
A historic fashion statement
Princess Diana wore the striking off-the-shoulder gown to a dinner in London on June 29, 1994. The late Princess of Wales arrived at the event in a green Jaguar XJ40 Sovereign, stepping out in a look that immediately made international headlines.
The choice of the daring black dress was widely interpreted by the public and the press as a direct and public reproach to her then-husband, Prince Charles. That same evening, the heir to the British throne had made a televised confession of his adultery with Camilla Parker Bowles, who is now Queen Camilla.
The moment cemented the garment in fashion history, establishing the concept of the "revenge dress" as a cultural touchstone. Diana's bold sartorial choice marked a significant departure from traditional royal protocol, which typically favored more conservative attire, and came to symbolise her independence following the public breakdown of her marriage.
Enduring public interest
More than three decades later, items associated with that specific evening continue to generate significant interest from collectors and royal enthusiasts alike.
The enduring fame of the Stambolian design was highlighted again earlier this year. In July, The Market, another London auction house, offered the exact green Jaguar XJ40 Sovereign that Diana traveled in on the night she debuted the dress. The vehicle was opportunely marketed by the auction house using its connection to the famous outfit.
Sotheby's, one of the world's largest brokers of fine art and luxury goods, will handle the upcoming sale of the dress itself. The December 9 auction will offer buyers the chance to own one of the most recognizable pieces of royal fashion from the twentieth century, providing a rare opportunity to acquire a garment that defined an era of modern royal history.
