A Tale of Velvet: Princess Diana’s Midnight Blue Gown Goes to Auction
Picture this: it’s midnight, the White House glittering under the stars, and Princess Diana swaying side‑to‑side with none other than John Travolta. The scene was straight out of a romantic movie, with the iconic song “You Should Be Dancing” looping in the background. Now, that very gown—an elegant midnight blue velvet masterpiece by Victor Edelstein—has made its way onto the auction block.
Why this dress matters
- Historic Moment: The dress was famously worn at a state dinner attended by Diana and her then‑husband, Prince Charles, during the Reagan administration (Nov 9, 1985).
- Iconic Photograph: The dance photograph featuring Travolta and Diana has become one of the most recognized images of the era.
- Legacy of Giving: Diana herself sold this dress, along with other pieces, for charity back in June 1997—just a few weeks before her tragic passing.
What’s on the auction list?
The Kerry Taylor Auctions will be offering three ensembles on December 9:
- Victor Edelstein’s midnight blue velvet gown (the one you’re reading about).
- A long‑sleeved evening dress from 1986, crafted by Katherine Cusack, also deep midnight blue.
- Catherine Walker’s navy wool day dress, dated around 1989.
Estimated Value
The Edelstein dress is priced between £250,000–£350,000 (roughly US $440,000–$617,000), reflecting its historical significance and iconic status.
So whether you’re a Queen’s armchair fan or just love a good splash of nostalgia, keep an eye on this auction—who knows which part of the Royal history will land in your hands?
