Diana, Princess of Wales’s famous midnight blue “John Travolta dress” that she wore to the White House in 1985 is set to go on display at Kensington Palace.
Historic Royal Palaces purchased the dress last December for £220,000, and it has remained behind closed doors since. Now that Kensington Palace is reopening to the public, the dress will be the star attraction. This is the first time this gown will be on display in her former residence.
The Head of Kensington Palace, Sam Owen, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming visitors back to the palace again this Thursday.
“Kensington Palace was built to be enjoyed by hundreds of people and it’s been sad to see it so quiet over the past couple of months.
“Myself and the team can’t wait to welcome visitors back again and give them a suitably royal welcome.
“We’ve never needed their support more – each visit is an important contribution to help us maintain this wonderful building for generations to come.”
The velvet dress had been expected to fetch up to £350,000 at the 2019 auction, but Historic Royal Palaces was able to purchase it for over £100,00 less.
The then-Princess of Wales wore the gown during a visit to the United States in November 1985 while President Ronald Reagan was in office. During an evening reception, Diana took to the dance floor with American actor John Travolta, and the photos of the dance became extremely popular.
Kensington Palace opens back up tomorrow after it closed in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Tickets can be booked online to visit the royal residence and see the dress.
