A dress worn by Diana, Princess of Wales has sold at auction for £102,000.
Against substantial American interest, the gown was snapped up by the owner of an overseas gallery during a bidding war at Londons Kerry Taylor Auctions yesterday.
With its shimmering gold panels, jewel-like rhinestones and pearl adornments, the ivory ballgown has all the drama and opulence of a fairy tale wedding dress. No surprise then, that it was designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel, the duo behind the princess iconic bridal gown.
Perhaps a shade too decadent for modern tastes, it features a matching headband, optional sleeve panels and a petticoat, and takes its inspiration from Leon Bakst's designs for Diaghilev's Ballets Russes.
On learning the identity of the buyer, the gown's former owner was said to be delighted that the dress will be preserved for others to enjoy in years to come.
In a statement, Kerry Taylor said, 'This is the 11th Princess Diana dress that I have sold this year, and I feel very lucky and privileged. It is a beautiful dress, worn by a beautiful woman and deserved to do well'.
