This week, the latest installment of the popular podcast “A Right Royal Podcast” takes a bold step into the glitzy world of royal memorabilia, as hosts – Andrea Caamano, Emmy Griffiths, and Royal Editor Emily Nash – venture out of the studio and into the opulent Peninsula Hotel in London. Their focus? An extraordinary upcoming auction showcasing the style of the exceptional Princess Diana, one of the most beloved figures in modern history. This auction, presented by Julien’s Auctions, includes a captivating assembly of 325 items, with over 100 items directly linked to Diana’s illustrious wardrobe.
Amidst the myriad of alluring pieces, listeners are treated to a visual feast: from the striking yellow Bruce Oldfield skirt suit that made waves at the 1987 Royal Ascot, to the charming green shoes worn at a 1990 London premiere, and even the peach hat that marked her poignant going-away outfit after her wedding in 1981. Not to be overlooked is the electric magenta ski suit that she donned while effortlessly embracing leisure in the slopes of Liechtenstein in 1985. Each piece not only represents a moment in her life but encapsulates the very essence of her public persona – glamorous yet relatable.
The Heart Behind the Heirlooms
In an exclusive interview with HELLO! at the auction preview, Martin Nolan, the executive director and co-creator of Julien’s Auctions, shared a heartfelt insight: despite the overwhelming selection of over 300 items, none of Diana’s iconic coats are present. This revelation is not merely an oversight; it speaks volumes about the compassionate character of the Princess. According to Nolan, Diana often ensured that her collection of winter coats would be donated to those in need during London’s harshest months. This act of generosity highlights her genuine nature, valuing compassion over the regal glamour that typically accompanies her fashion legacy.
Perhaps this is what makes the upcoming auction so compelling; it isn’t solely about the clothing but rather the values that Diana embodied. Her candid desire to support the less fortunate contrasts sharply against the often superficial aspects of royalty, imbuing each piece with a story that extends far beyond mere fabric and thread.
A Legacy Revisited
As the auction is set to unfold in Beverly Hills at the end of June, it draws parallels to the historic 1997 auction, which Diana and Prince William had orchestrated. That auction, which saw 79 of her most iconic dresses, raised a staggering $3 million for various charities, further solidifying Diana’s legacy of philanthropy. Tragically, she passed away just months after this landmark event, yet the spirit of her contributions continues to resonate, as Martin notes, “all the items that she sold herself, that went out into the universe, are now coming back slowly to auction again.”
This cyclical nature of Diana’s fashion, where past pieces find new homes and renewed appreciation, signifies a powerful narrative about the impact of her choices both on and off the public stage. Each item carries with it an echo of her personality—a reminder of a woman who masterfully utilized fashion as a vessel for her messages and ideals.
The Designers Behind the Legacy
Adding another layer to this enchanting theme, the podcast also engages with Jacques Azagury, a designer closely associated with Diana. He reflects on their final fitting, mere days before her untimely death, embroidering the emotional landscape of fashion. Azagury’s decision not to auction off the five famous dresses he designed reveals the depth of his respect for her memory and the bond they shared. His personal anecdotes offer a granular view of Diana as not merely a client but as a muse and friend, enriching the overarching narrative of her legacy.
Through this blend of personal stories and historical insights, listeners are invited to not just appreciate the exquisite craftsmanship of Diana’s wardrobe, but also to grasp the heart that beats behind each piece. Diana was an icon of grace and purpose, and as her story unfolds with each auction, it serves as a gentle reminder of the multifaceted persona that continues to inspire today.