Photographed at the London premiere of “Back to the Future,” Princess Diana looked the picture of elegance in a burgundy velvet Catherine Walker gown, accessorized with a string of pearls tied in an unusual and dramatic knot in the middle of her back.
But appearances can be deceptive. She later told the designer that the 1985 movie had been torture — not because of Michael J. Fox’s performance but because the knot kept digging into her skin as she sat in the royal box.
PHOTOS: DI DRESSES UP FOR AUCTION
That slinky crushed-velvet number is just one of the late princess’ gowns being auctioned March 19 from London. And experts say back stories like these can only add to their value.
“People just love talking about Diana and everything she did,” says auctioneer Kerry Taylor, who is coordinating the sale and has painstakingly researched their history. “Each of these gowns tells a small chapter in the story of her life.”
The 10 dresses up for sale include the famous “John Travolta” number, which Diana wore when she sensationally danced with the “Grease” star at the White House in 1985.
Diana had auctioned off the gowns for charity in June 1997 just months before her death — when they were snapped up by Florida business woman and socialite Maureen Dunkel.
This time, the proceeds aren’t going to charity — but to pay off the debts of Dunkel, who declared bankruptcy in 2010.
And if previous trends on the sale of Diana memorabilia continue, they’re likely to exceed the $2.5 million total estimated by Taylor.
In 2010, Taylor sold a taffeta dress — worn by a busty, teenage Diana on her first public appearance after her engagement was announced — for $350,000.
But don’t expect Prince William to buy back any of his mother’s clothes for Kate.
“Not going to happen,” says Joe Little, managing editor of Britain’s Majesty magazine. “He has a lot of her treasured possessions already, so why would he or should he?
“The royal family is resigned to the fact of artifacts of Diana being highly marketable and they’ll keep a dignified silence.”
Here’s a look at the stories behind the dresses — and the prices they’re expected to fetch at auction.
