Princess Diana’s iconic jumper sells for staggering amount at auction
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An iconic jumper belonging to the late Princess Diana has sold for nearly £1 million at auction, making it the most valuable sweater ever sold. The black sheep jumper, which Diana wore at a polo match in June 1981, fetched $1.14 million (£920,000) at a Sotheby’s auction in New York. The red jumper features one black sheep among a flock of white ones, a design that some commentators believe may have been chosen by Diana to represent how she felt among the royal family.
Thought to be lost to history, the jumper was rediscovered in an attic by designer Joanna Osborne. It was authenticated through photo-matching and cross-referencing specific signs of wear on the sleeve. Osborne, along with Sally Muir, created the jumper for their knitwear brand Warm & Wonderful, which they founded in 1979. The jumper was one of their first designs.
When Osborne found the jumper in her loft, she initially questioned whether it could really be the iconic piece. However, upon seeing the cuff, she knew it was the one. The Sotheby’s catalogue notes that the jumper was worn by Diana, then Lady Diana Spencer, while watching a polo match in which Prince Charles played. The catalogue also reveals that Buckingham Palace sent two letters to Warm & Wonderful in 1981, requesting a repair or replacement for the damaged jumper.
In response, Warm & Wonderful sent Diana a replacement sweater, which she wore to another polo match in 1983. The investigation into the authenticity of the black sheep jumper included examining the damaged cuff, the shape of the garment, and the intricacies of the individually sewn sheep’s eyes. In conjunction with photo-matched authentication by Sotheby’s, it was confirmed that this rediscovered jumper is indeed the original one worn by Princess Diana over 40 years ago.
The sale of Princess Diana’s black sheep jumper for such a staggering amount highlights the enduring fascination and value placed on iconic fashion items associated with influential figures. Diana’s sense of style and her ability to use fashion to express herself and make statements have had a lasting impact. The jumper, with its symbolic black sheep, is now seen as a representation of Diana’s position within the royal family.
Fashion trends often emerge from unexpected sources, and this auction serves as a reminder of the power of nostalgia and the enduring appeal of vintage fashion. With the popularity of retro and vintage clothing continuing to rise, collectors and fashion enthusiasts alike are willing to pay top dollar for iconic pieces that hold historical significance.
The sale of the black sheep jumper also raises questions about the role of fashion in personal expression and identity. Diana, known for her philanthropic work and her ability to connect with people from all walks of life, used fashion as a tool to communicate her values and aspirations. The jumper, with its unique design, allowed Diana to subtly convey her feelings of being different within the royal family.
In a world where inclusivity and diversity are increasingly valued, Princess Diana’s black sheep jumper resonates with individuals who may feel marginalized or misunderstood. The jumper serves as a reminder that it is okay to stand out, to be different, and to embrace one’s individuality. It symbolizes the power of self-expression through fashion and the ability to challenge societal norms.
As the most valuable sweater ever sold at auction, Princess Diana’s black sheep jumper holds a special place in fashion history. Its significance extends beyond its monetary value, representing a piece of Princess Diana’s legacy and the impact she had on the world. The jumper serves as a tangible link to a beloved figure who continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
In conclusion, the sale of Princess Diana’s black sheep jumper for nearly £1 million at auction is a testament to the enduring fascination with iconic fashion items associated with influential figures. The jumper’s unique design and its symbolic representation of Diana’s position within the royal family have solidified its place in fashion history. As fashion trends continue to evolve, Princess Diana’s legacy lives on through her timeless sense of style and her ability to use fashion as a form of self-expression.
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