The world was devastated by the tragic loss of Princess Diana in a fatal car crash in Paris back in 1997. Known as the “People’s Princess,” Diana captured hearts across the globe with her compassion, elegance, and charisma. Even nearly three decades later, her legacy remains as powerful as ever. Her image continues to inspire, and her story still moves millions. Diana’s fashion choices were as iconic as her humanitarian work, and many of her most memorable outfits have been preserved. Just this week, a number of those cherished pieces were auctioned off, with the final bids reaching astronomical heights.
Princess Diana had a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Despite her separation and eventual divorce from Prince Charles, she remained a beloved figure not just in Britain, but around the world. Wherever she went, crowds gathered, hoping to catch a glimpse of her. Her presence was magnetic — a mix of grace and warmth that made people feel as if they truly knew her.
Unfortunately, that same magnetic quality also attracted relentless attention from the media. Paparazzi hounded her constantly, hungry for photos and headlines. In the summer of 1997, this pursuit ended in tragedy. While trying to escape the paparazzi, the car carrying Diana, her partner Dodi Fayed, and their driver, Henri Paul, crashed inside the Pont de l’Alma tunnel in Paris. All three were killed. Diana’s death shocked the world and prompted widespread grief.
In 2004, the Metropolitan Police in London launched Operation Paget, an official inquiry into her death. The investigation concluded that Diana died as a result of “grossly negligent driving,” both by the paparazzi who were chasing her and by Henri Paul, who was later found to have been under the influence of alcohol and prescription drugs at the time of the crash.
Her funeral, held at Westminster Abbey, was broadcast globally and watched by an estimated 2.5 billion people. That outpouring of sorrow proved just how deeply Diana had touched people’s lives. Today, her legacy is kept alive not only through her children, Prince William and Prince Harry, but also through the many symbols of her life — including her wardrobe.
Earlier this week, Julien’s Auctions hosted an event titled Princess Diana’s Style & A Royal Collection, where more than 140 items belonging to Diana were put up for bid. The collection featured a variety of garments and personal artifacts, such as elegant gowns, stylish shoes, and even handwritten notes. The auction, held at the luxurious Peninsula Hotel in Beverly Hills, attracted global interest and competitive bidding.
Julien’s described the collection as “a tribute to fashion, royalty, and the enduring influence of one of the most iconic figures of the 20th century.” They emphasized how Diana used fashion not merely as a personal expression but as a tool to reshape public perceptions of the monarchy. Through bold colors, elegant designs, and thoughtful choices, Diana communicated warmth, accessibility, and modernity.
“Her fashion was never just about looking beautiful,” the auction house noted. “It carried meaning. It conveyed purpose and empathy. That’s why her style remains relevant — because it was both timeless and human.”
Among the standout items sold was the vibrant floral Bellville Sassoon dress, famously referred to as the “Caring Dress.” This particular outfit fetched a jaw-dropping $520,000, well over its original estimate. Designer David Sassoon once called it the “Caring Dress” because Diana often wore it during hospital visits. The soft colors and flowing design made her appear more approachable, especially to children.
Martin Nolan, co-founder and executive director of Julien’s Auctions, explained to People magazine, “It was colorful, approachable, likeable, and huggable. When she visited kids or people in hospitals, they were drawn to her because of how she looked and carried herself. It wasn’t just about style — it was about comfort.”
Another highlight was a glamorous evening gown designed by Catherine Walker, which Diana wore during a 1986 diplomatic tour in the Gulf region. That gown sold for $450,000, also well above its expected price. Catherine Walker was one of Diana’s most trusted designers, and her pieces often reflected a perfect balance of sophistication and humility.
Also up for auction were deeply personal mementos, including handwritten letters and greeting cards. One birthday card, signed by Diana and her sons William and Harry, provided a touching reminder of the princess’s role as a mother. A signed letter to Mark Simpson, a footman at Buckingham Palace, sold for $6,500. These items offered a rare and intimate glimpse into Diana’s personal world.
What truly sets Diana apart, however, is not what she wore but what she stood for. She was known for her charitable work, particularly with the homeless, AIDS patients, and children. Her legacy of compassion continues through Prince William, who has championed efforts to support the homeless and address mental health — both causes close to his mother’s heart.
Interestingly, despite the vast number of Diana-related items that appear at auctions, there’s one piece of clothing you’ll almost never see for sale: her coats. Martin Nolan explained why during an interview with Hello! magazine. “I always say, where are Diana’s coats? We have over 300 items in this auction. Over 100 are Diana’s. Not one coat,” he said.
The reason is simple yet incredibly moving. During the colder months in London, Diana would gather coats — either her own or donated by friends — and personally deliver them to the homeless and those in need. She never sought attention for this act of kindness. She did it quietly, from the heart.
“She didn’t want the spotlight,” Nolan said. “She just wanted to help. It was genuine. Completely genuine.”
Princess Diana’s memory lives on not just through fashion or photographs, but through the countless lives she touched with her kindness and empathy. What’s your most cherished memory of Diana? We invite you to share your story in the comments below.
