Princess Diana’s iconic black silk dress, first worn in 1994, is set for auction at Sotheby’s with a presale estimate of up to US$300,000.
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A black silk, midi-length gown associated with Princess Diana—often discussed as her “revenge dress”—is scheduled for auction at Sotheby’s this December, with the auction house listing a presale estimate that could reach US$300,000.
The piece is identified as a Christina Stambolian dress, described as a black silk gown of a midi length that Diana first wore to a Vanity Fair party in London in 1994.
The auction information also notes that the televised interview context involving then-Prince Charles occurred earlier that same day, during which his infidelity was discussed publicly in the media.
Diana’s appearance in the dress is described as a prominent fashion moment, with the look paired with a sapphire necklace, black pumps and sheer tights.
The dress is also referenced as being widely photographed and shared in later years, and the article notes that replicas and re-interpretations have appeared across social media over time.
It is noted that Diana did not wear the gown again and that she died on Aug. 31, 1997, at the age of 36.
In addition to the auction listing for the original garment, the article says a life-size waxwork replica of Diana wearing the dress was unveiled at a Paris museum in 2025.
The listing indicates that bidding is scheduled to begin in New York on Dec. 9, with the presale estimate up to US$300,000, which the article converts to approximately C$419,700 using the current exchange rate cited in the original report.
For buyers tracking high-profile royal memorabilia, the auction represents a rare chance to acquire a piece that has remained culturally prominent for decades after its first appearance in 1994. The combination of auction timing this December and the New York start date for bidding provides a specific window for potential bidders.
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