Princess Diana's 'Revenge Dress' Auctions for Up to $300,000

Princess Diana's famed black 'revenge dress' is scheduled for auction at Sotheby's on December 9, with an estimated sale price of up to $300,000 (£220,000). The dress, a calf-length, off-the-shoulder black silk cocktail dress designed by Christina Stambolian, gained notoriety for being worn by Diana in 1994 to a Vanity Fair summer party, the same evening Prince Charles publicly admitted his affair with Camilla Parker Bowles. This strategic choice of attire, perceived as a defiant response to her husband's confession, cemented its status as a symbol of Diana's independence and resilience.

The dress is described as a form-fitting, black silk crepe design featuring an elegant off-the-shoulder neckline and a daring hemline that fell just below the knee. Its bold silhouette and the context of its first public appearance have made it one of Princess Diana's most memorable fashion statements. The designer, Christina Stambolian, noted that Diana had purchased three dresses from her in 1991, and this particular piece was chosen to make a powerful statement. The "revenge dress" moniker was coined by the media, reflecting the public's interpretation of Diana's sartorial defiance.

Sotheby's is hosting the auction, which is expected to draw significant interest from collectors and admirers of royal fashion. The dress has been part of a private collection for over two decades, making its public offering a notable event. The auction house anticipates that the historical significance and iconic status of the garment will drive competitive bidding. The sale represents a unique opportunity to acquire a piece of fashion history directly linked to one of the 20th century's most influential public figures.

Princess Diana, born Diana Spencer, was a member of the British royal family and the first wife of Charles III. Her marriage to the then-Prince Charles in 1981 was a global event, and she became one of the most photographed women in the world. Known for her humanitarian work and her distinctive fashion sense, Diana's influence extended far beyond the United Kingdom. Her life and tragic death in a car crash in 1997 continue to fascinate the public, and items associated with her remain highly sought after.