Princess Di collectible exceeds expectations at auction
The vintage piece was bought for £192,000 by a fashion museum in Chile on June 8th.Princess Diana wore the black taffeta dress, designed by Elizabeth and David Emanuel, to her first royal engagement as the fiancee of Prince Charles.
It is believed to have helped in transforming her from 'Shy Di' into one of the world's most influential fashion icons.
Auctioneer Kerry Taylor said: "The high prices that we saw yesterday reflect the enduring love affair with Princess Diana, who was not only a style icon and beautiful princess, but a humanitarian who touched the lives of so many people."
She added that it was going to a good home and would be donated to Kensington House when the new owner dies.
The collectible was believed to have been lost after Diana returned the dress to the designers for alterations a few weeks before her wedding.
It was later found in a black bin bag. It was sold with the original brown paper pattern and a letter of authencity from Elizabeth Emanuel.
The dress was expected to reach just £50,000 at the online auction. Another 249 lots relating to the princess were also up for grabs.
Posted by Max Byrne
