Lot 55 – Black Victorian Gown

Despite no known photos of Diana in this gown, Lot 55, the black velvet brocade Victorian gown with a deep v-neck and waist framed by a wide Honiton lace collar and cuffs is a popular one to copy. The v-waist features a seldom noticed beaded appliqué detail above the hips and cuffs. The designer was Catherine Walker and it raised just over $24,000.

The fabric has a faint floral pattern in the velvet, which isn’t likely to translate to doll scale. The gown features long sleeves over a v-waist ballgown shape with a very heavy full skirt. Sadly, unless some photos come out of the woodwork, we are unlikely to know how Diana accessorized it, but a good guess would likely echo her other black and white/cream ensembles, such as a black velvet ribbon choker or a pearl necklace, with pearl earrings. The gown is definitely tiara worthy, probably the Spencer one, however it was likely not used as this gown was privately worn.

Replicas from top left by Stacey of S ‘n’ E Shoes, Betsy O’Donnell, Tommie Peacock, Alana Bennett, Wild Orchid Studio.

As an outfit for the FM vinyl doll, I would be happiest to see it include:

1. Gown

2. Spencer tiara

3. Pearl necklace

4. Black satin shoes

5. Black clutch bag

6. Pearl drop earrings

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