Ball gown

Catherine Walker

1989 · silk · Costume Institute

This romantic gown embodies the legendary image and overwhelming impact of style icon Diana, Princess of Wales. Clothes were professional obligation and personal obsession for Diana, whose approach to style transcended fashion and yet single-handedly rejuvenated the British apparel industry in a calculated demonstration of national pride. Included by the princess in an unprecedented charity auction that exploited the public's fascination to garner millions for AIDS and cancer research, this gown was perhaps part of an initiative to extend her philanthropic interests.

Artist

Catherine Walker

Date

1989

Medium

silk

Culture

British

Department

Costume Institute

Credit line

Gift of Mrs. Randolph Hearst, 1998