Princess Diana's Memorabilia Auction Exceeds Expectations, Fetching $5.5 Million

In a remarkable display of royal history, a collection of Princess Diana's possessions has sold for an impressive total of $5.5 million at Julien’s Auctions in Los Angeles. This auction, which featured over 50 items, included a variety of Diana's personal effects such as evening gowns, shoes, handbags, and intimate letters, alongside memorabilia from other notable members of the British royal family. The highlight of the auction was a magenta silk and lace evening gown worn by Diana in 1987, which sold for $910,000—more than four times its estimated value of $200,000. This gown was designed by Victor Edelstein, who also created the iconic midnight blue velvet gown that Diana famously wore while dancing with John Travolta at the White House. Other standout items included a pair of emerald green satin pumps that fetched $390,000 and a midnight-blue tulle gown that sold for $780,000. In addition to clothing, personal letters also attracted significant bids. A handwritten note from Diana, expressing gratitude to a former housekeeper, sold for $44,450. The auction also featured items from other royals, including a diamond watch pendant given to Princess Margaret, which sold for $78,000, and a pair of slippers belonging to the Duke of Windsor, which went for $5,850. Overall, the auction not only highlighted the enduring fascination with Princess Diana but also showcased the rich history of the British royal family through its diverse collection of memorabilia.