david and elizabeth emmanuel

Princess Diana's Black Ballgown Up For Sale

It's quite the season for famous gowns. First we learned about Marilyn Monroe's pink satin number up for auction now a black taffeta gown belonging to Princess Diana is up for sale. The evening gown was worn by Princess Diana on her first official appearance after her engagement to Prince Charles and marked her debut as an international fashion icon. The gown was designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel, the same designers who created Diana's wedding. The black dress with a sequined flounce at the bodice is expected to bring between 30,000 and 50,000 pounds ($44,000 to $73,000) when it goes up for sale on June 8th by Kerry Taylor Auctions at La Galleria in London.
Also up for sale is the calico prototype used to fit her ivory wedding gown. That prototype is estimated at between 8,000 and 12,000 pounds ($12,000 to $17,000). The sale also includes the the silk chiffon blouse chosen for the Princess of Wales' official engagement portrait by Lord Snowdon. It is hoped that the pieces will go to a museum but could end up in a private collection. Many of Diana's dresses have been sold for thousands of dollars. The collection up for sale from David and Elizabeth Emanuel also includes sketches, notes, invoices, providing a complete picture of the creation of a Royal look.

Tags: david and elizabeth emmanuel, diana spencer, dress auction, kerry taylor auctions, princess diana