Julien’s Auctions is now offering a Lady Dior handbag that once belonged to Princess Diana. The Lady Dior is already one of the most coveted bags in the world, but one touched by the Princess of Wales herself is on an entirely different level, it can easily be dubbed the holy grail of handbags. And rightfully so.
The 1995 Lady Dior Lambskin Handbag, originally named “ChouChou,” was renamed after it was gifted to Diana by Bernadette Chirac, the First Lady of France, in September 1995. Instantly enamored with the accessory, which quickly became an extension of her elegant style, Diana flaunted the box-shaped tote, with its signature top-stitching that mirrors the couture house’s cane-back chairs, at nearly every important occasion, and in a variety of colors.
It was during her official visit to Argentina in November 1995 that the bag truly became an object of desire. The stylish mother of two was seen arriving at the airport in a custom sleeveless Gianni Versace shift dress, holding the handbag that caught every woman’s eye. She even commissioned a second version in navy blue to “match the color of her eyes,” according to British Vogue. To this day, the Lady Dior remains one of the most iconic handbags of all time.
The upcoming auction will be one of the largest-ever sales of Princess Diana’s fashion legacy, taking place on June 26 at the Peninsula Beverly Hills. The historic sale will feature over 300 pieces, including couture gowns, formal ensembles, and signature looks. Julien’s has estimated the Lady Dior handbag between $20,000 and $30,000, while other items are expected to fetch between $50,000 and $100,000.
While Diana’s love for the Lady Dior is well-documented, she also developed an aversion to another iconic fashion house, Chanel, despite her deep passion for fashion. Princess Diana reportedly had a complicated relationship with the brand, particularly following her divorce from Prince Charles.
According to Australian designer Jayson Brunsdon, when he offered her Chanel accessories for an event in the late 1990s, Diana declined, explaining, “I can’t wear linked Cs, the double C. It’s Charles and Camilla.” Fashion is deeply personal, and owning a piece once worn by Princess Diana is a rare privilege that doesn’t come around every day.
