Whimsical Sweater by Little-Known Designers Becomes Record-Breaking Fashion Collectible.
In a remarkable fashion moment, a red sweater worn by Princess Diana, featuring a single black sheep among rows of woolly white sheep, has fetched an astounding $1.1 million at auction. This whimsically themed “Black Sheep” sweater, created by then-little-known designers Sally Muir and Joanna Osborne and their knitting company Warm and Wonderful, has become one of the most emblematic articles of clothing ever worn by the beloved princess.
The “Black Sheep” sweater was worn by a 19-year-old Diana shortly after her engagement to then-Prince Charles at a June 1981 polo match in which the prince participated. The garment, seemingly playful with its design, hinted at Diana’s unique journey as a member of the United Kingdom’s royal family. Little did the world know that it would become a symbol of her individuality and resilience.
The sweater was offered for sale by the renowned auction house Sotheby’s, and its final selling price exceeded all expectations. Initially estimated to fetch between $50,000 to $80,000, the bidding war among internet participants drove the price to unprecedented heights. Sotheby’s extended the sale by several minutes due to an avalanche of bids. In the final 15 minutes, the price skyrocketed from $190,000 to an astonishing $1.1 million. The identity of the winning bidder remains undisclosed.
According to Sotheby’s, this sale marks the highest price ever paid at auction for a garment belonging to Princess Diana, surpassing the record set earlier this year when her Infanta-style ball gown was sold for $604,000. Additionally, the “Black Sheep” sweater now holds the distinction of being the most valuable sweater ever sold at auction, solidifying Princess Diana’s enduring influence on fashion collectibles.
Princess Diana’s impact on fashion and culture continues to captivate the world even decades after her passing. Her unique style choices, including the “Black Sheep” sweater, have transcended time and remain highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. This remarkable auction underscores the lasting legacy of a beloved fashion icon and the enduring fascination with her life and style.
In conclusion, the sale of Princess Diana’s “Black Sheep” sweater for a staggering $1.1 million serves as a testament to her enduring influence on the world of fashion and her ability to turn even the most whimsical of garments into priceless treasures.
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4.https://www.cbsnews.com/news/princess-diana-black-sheep-sweater-auction-1-143-million/