Princess Diana’s iconic 'Revenge Dress' to be auctioned by Sotheby's after 30 years

The black silk Christina Stambolian dress will headline a standalone fashion evening auction in New York in December

Princess Diana’s iconic “Revenge Dress” is set to return to the auction block nearly three decades after it was last sold, Vogue reports.

The black silk Christina Stambolian dress will headline a standalone fashion evening auction at Sotheby’s in New York on December 9, with an estimated value of $150,000 to $300,000.

Diana wore the off-the-shoulder design to a Vanity Fair party at London’s Serpentine Gallery in June 1994.

The appearance became one of the most recognisable moments of Diana’s public life.

Earlier that day, a television interview with her estranged husband, then-Prince Charles, aired in which he addressed his infidelity during their marriage.

Diana had originally planned to wear another outfit but changed her choice at the last minute.

She had owned the Stambolian design for three years and previously considered it “too daring” for a public appearance.

Her former stylist Anna Harvey later recalled that Diana “wanted to look a million dollars.”

The dress subsequently became known as the “Revenge Dress”, with its cultural significance extending beyond fashion and influencing how celebrities have used clothing during highly publicised break-ups.

Diana never wore the dress publicly again. In June 1997, she included it among 79 dresses auctioned to benefit cancer and AIDS charities. It was bought by its current owners and has remained with them since.

Vogue reports that part of the proceeds from the latest sale will benefit NHS Lothian Charity on behalf of the Royal Hospital of Edinburgh.

Before the December 9 auction, the dress will tour London, Hong Kong and Geneva before going on public display.