The enduring fashion legacy of the late Diana, Princess of Wales, continues to inspire countless individuals, as evidenced by designer Simon Porte Jacquemus recently dedicating his latest show to honor the royal icon. Now, admirers of Princess Diana’s style have an extraordinary opportunity to possess one of her most renowned and cherished pieces: the iconic ‘black sheep’ jumper, a beloved item that once graced her everyday wardrobe.
This special sweater, originally crafted by the knitwear brand Warm & Wonderful, will be heading to auction for the first time, courtesy of Sotheby’s auction house in New York this August. With an estimated value ranging from £40,000 to £70,000, this extraordinary garment carries not only historical significance but also a sense of sentimental value to those captivated by the Princess’s elegance.
Recalling the moment of unexpected fame, Warm & Wonderful founders, Sally Muir and Joanna Osborne, express their astonishment upon spotting Lady Diana Spencer donning their sweater on the front page of a Sunday newspaper. Her endorsement sparked an immediate and impactful surge in sales, catapulting their modest label into the spotlight and elevating its public recognition—a gift for which they remain eternally grateful.
The ‘black sheep’ jumper had ceased production in 1994, but destiny had a surprising twist in store. In 2019, Jack Carlson, the creative director of the American clothing label Rowing Blazers, approached Muir and Osborne with an earnest plea to revive this iconic design. Recognizing its timeless appeal and the enduring allure of Princess Diana’s fashion choices, Warm & Wonderful seized the opportunity and brought back the cherished piece from the past.
As the coveted garment prepares to go under the hammer, fashion enthusiasts and devoted followers of Princess Diana eagerly anticipate the auction. Beyond its material value, this sweater embodies the essence of a remarkable woman who left an indelible mark on the world with her compassion, grace, and distinctive sense of style. The winning bidder will not only own a unique fashion artifact but also possess a tangible connection to the enduring legacy of one of history’s most beloved fashion icons.
