Princess Diana’s Iconic Black Sheep Sweater Sells for Record-Breaking $1.14 Million at Auction
In a groundbreaking auction held by Sotheby’s in New York, Princess Diana’s iconic black sheep sweater was sold for a staggering $1.14 million, breaking auction records. The bright red sweater with a black sheep pattern was a standout fashion item worn by Princess Diana in 1981, before her marriage to Charles, now King Charles III.
During her lifetime, Princess Diana faced intense media scrutiny from Britain’s tabloid media. However, she was widely popular with the general public, and her fashion choices often made headlines. The black sheep jumper, now known as the “black sheep jumper,” caused a stir when she first wore it, and it has now become an iconic piece of fashion history.
The sweater garnered a total of 44 bids from 12 countries, with a final frenzy of bidding after a 15-minute battle. The auction lot also included two official letters from Buckingham Palace to the design company “Warm & Wonderful,” requesting a repair or replacement for the damaged cuff. The co-founders of the company, Joanna Osborne and Sally Muir, found the damaged original sweater in an attic earlier this year, confirming its authenticity.
Sotheby’s stated that the sale of Diana’s sweater set a new auction record for any article of clothing worn by the late Princess, as well as being the most valuable sweater ever sold at auction. It surpassed the previous record held by musician Kurt Cobain’s green cardigan, which sold for $334,000 in 2019.
One of the reasons Princess Diana’s fashion choices were so influential was her willingness to challenge societal expectations and make statements through her clothing. Cynthia Houlton, SVP and Global Head of Fashion and Accessories at Sotheby’s, described the black sheep sweater as a metaphor for not quite fitting in and embracing being different.
Princess Diana’s impact on fashion extended beyond her own wardrobe. Designers such as Vivienne Westwood and Judy Blame embraced bold colors, prints, and extravagant ideas, changing the fashion landscape of 1980s Britain. Diana’s style was characterized as sophisticated and relatable, reflecting the changing social climate and evolving perceptions of femininity.
The auction of Princess Diana’s black sheep sweater showcases her enduring legacy and the continued fascination with her fashion choices. Her outfits continue to inspire fans and admirers, with exhibitions dedicated to her style and clothing still popular today.
In addition to the sweater, other memorable fashion items from Princess Diana, such as the off-shoulder black minidress known as the “revenge dress,” have made their mark in fashion history. Her amethyst and diamond “Attallah Cross” necklace sold to Kim Kardashian earlier this year, and her “Infanta” style ball gown sold for over $600,000 at Sotheby’s New York.
Princess Diana’s impact on fashion and her charitable work have earned her the title of the “People’s Princess.” Her style broke royal protocols and paved the way for a new era of fashion and femininity within the royal family. This record-breaking auction of her black sheep sweater solidifies her status as an everlasting fashion icon.