Title: Princess Diana’s “Black Sheep” Sweater Sells for Record-Breaking Price at Auction
Introduction:
Princess Diana, known for her iconic fashion choices, continues to captivate the world even decades after her passing. Recently, a unique and charming item from Diana’s wardrobe made headlines as it smashed records at a Sotheby’s auction. The “black sheep” sweater, worn by Diana in 1981, surpassed all expectations and became the most valuable sweater ever sold at auction.
Content:
Diana’s fashion legacy is well-documented, from her show-stopping wedding gown to her daring outfits that challenged royal dress codes. This particular sweater, created by knitwear designers Sally Muir and Joanna Osborne under their label Warm & Wonderful, stands out as a testament to Diana’s individuality.
The sweater, featuring a pattern of white sheep with a black sheep standing out in the crowd, was first worn by Diana during a polo match while she was engaged to King Charles III. Despite suffering a snag in one of the cuffs shortly after wearing it, Muir and Osborne quickly knitted her a replacement and received a letter of gratitude from Buckingham Palace.
Previously, the highest price ever paid for a garment worn by Diana was held by a Victor Edelstein ball gown, fetching $604,800 at auction. However, the “black sheep” sweater shattered this record by selling for an extraordinary $1,143,000 in just 15 minutes of bidding.
The unexpected sale price far exceeded the initial estimate of $50,000 to $80,000. A total of 44 bids were placed, driving the price 14 times higher than expected.
Muir and Osborne, the designers behind the sweater, expressed their gratitude for Diana’s impact on their business and the unique connection they shared through the black sheep design. They conveyed their delight that this cherished sweater has found a new home, carrying the enduring legacy of Princess Diana.
Conclusion:
Princess Diana’s fashion choices continue to resonate with people around the world. The sale of her “black sheep” sweater for a record-breaking price at Sotheby’s Fashion Icons auction highlights the lasting impact of Diana’s style and her ability to elevate even casual knitwear to the realm of high fashion. This extraordinary sale proves that Diana’s fashion legacy is as influential and valuable as ever.