Vintage fashion items are not only symbols of style but also artifacts of cultural history. Over the years, some of these iconic pieces have fetched astronomical prices at auction, reflecting their unique stories and the legendary figures who wore them. From Hollywood glamour to royal elegance, these items capture the essence of bygone eras while continuing to inspire modern fashion. Here are some of the most valuable vintage fashion items ever auctioned, each with its own captivating tale.
Marilyn Monroe’s “Happy Birthday, Mr. President” Dress
This dress, worn by Marilyn Monroe in 1962 while serenading President John F. Kennedy, sold for a staggering $4.8 million in 2016. Crafted from sheer, flesh-colored fabric adorned with over 2,500 rhinestones, it was a spectacle of glamour and sophistication. The dress’s exquisite design highlighted Monroe’s iconic silhouette, making it an unforgettable piece of fashion history. Its value is not just in the material but also in the cultural and historical significance attached to Monroe’s performance. Today, it remains one of the most expensive pieces of clothing ever sold at auction.
Audrey Hepburn’s “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” Black Dress
The iconic black Givenchy dress worn by Audrey Hepburn in the opening scene of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” fetched $807,000 in 2006. Its elegant simplicity set a new standard for the little black dress, epitomizing timeless style and sophistication. Hepburn’s portrayal of Holly Golightly cemented this dress as a symbol of classic Hollywood glamour. The dress, paired with pearls and oversized sunglasses, became an enduring image in popular culture. Its high auction price reflects its lasting impact on fashion and film.
Princess Diana’s Victor Edelstein Velvet Gown
Worn by Princess Diana during a state visit to the White House in 1985, this stunning midnight-blue velvet gown was auctioned for $347,000 in 2013. Designed by Victor Edelstein, the dress gained fame when Diana danced with John Travolta at the event. The gown’s elegance and the iconic moment it represents contributed significantly to its high value. It stands as a testament to Diana’s impeccable style and the lasting legacy of her public appearances. The dress continues to inspire fashion enthusiasts and royal watchers alike.
Elizabeth Taylor’s “Cleopatra” Cape
Elizabeth Taylor’s cape from the 1963 film “Cleopatra” sold for $59,375 in 2012. Designed by Irene Sharaff, the cape featured intricate gold embroidery and a dramatic silhouette befitting the queen of ancient Egypt. Taylor’s portrayal of Cleopatra was legendary, and her costumes played a crucial role in bringing the character to life. The cape’s sale price reflects its craftsmanship and the star power associated with Taylor. This piece remains a significant artifact from one of Hollywood’s most ambitious productions.
Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” Jacket
Michael Jackson’s red and black leather jacket from the “Thriller” music video sold for $1.8 million in 2011. Designed by Deborah Nadoolman Landis, the jacket became a symbol of 1980s pop culture. Jackson’s “Thriller” video revolutionized music videos, and his fashion choices were a significant part of his persona. The jacket’s distinctive design and its association with the King of Pop contribute to its immense value. It remains an iconic piece of music and fashion history.
Kate Middleton’s Alexander McQueen Wedding Dress
Designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, Kate Middleton’s wedding dress was valued at an estimated $434,000. The dress, worn during her 2011 wedding to Prince William, featured intricate lace detailing and a full satin skirt. Middleton’s choice of a British designer and the dress’s timeless elegance resonated with millions around the world. The gown’s significance lies in its association with a royal wedding watched by billions. Its valuation reflects its design excellence and cultural impact.
Marilyn Monroe’s “The Seven Year Itch” Dress
The white dress worn by Marilyn Monroe in “The Seven Year Itch” sold for $4.6 million in 2011. Created by William Travilla, the dress became famous for the scene where Monroe stands over a subway grate. This iconic moment solidified Monroe’s status as a sex symbol and the dress as a piece of cinematic history. The garment’s design, with its pleated skirt and halter neckline, continues to inspire fashion. Its auction price underscores its enduring appeal and cultural significance.
Jackie Kennedy’s Inaugural Ball Gown
The white chiffon gown worn by Jackie Kennedy to President John F. Kennedy’s inaugural ball was auctioned for $190,000. Designed by Ethel Frankau of Bergdorf Custom Salon, the dress featured a fitted bodice and a full skirt. Jackie’s impeccable style set trends throughout the 1960s, and this gown is one of her most celebrated pieces. Its historical significance and timeless elegance contribute to its high auction value. The dress symbolizes a moment of American history and the legacy of the Kennedy era.
Grace Kelly’s “Rear Window” Dress
The black and white dress worn by Grace Kelly in Alfred Hitchcock’s “Rear Window” fetched $52,000 at auction. Designed by Edith Head, the dress exemplified Kelly’s sophisticated and elegant style. The film’s success and Kelly’s iconic performance added to the dress’s allure. Its classic design continues to inspire fashion enthusiasts and designers. The dress’s value lies in its association with a Hollywood legend and a cinematic masterpiece.
Michael Jackson’s Swarovski-Studded Glove
Michael Jackson’s iconic white glove, adorned with Swarovski crystals, sold for $350,000 in 2009. Jackson wore this glove during his 1983 performance of “Billie Jean” on the Motown 25 television special. The glove became a signature part of Jackson’s stage persona, symbolizing his unique style and showmanship. Its sale price highlights its significance in music history and Jackson’s cultural impact. The glove remains one of the most recognizable accessories in pop music.
Audrey Hepburn’s “My Fair Lady” Ascot Dress
The elaborate gown worn by Audrey Hepburn in the Ascot scene of “My Fair Lady” sold for $3.7 million in 2011. Designed by Cecil Beaton, the dress featured intricate lace detailing and a dramatic black and white color scheme. Hepburn’s performance and the film’s success cemented this dress as a fashion icon. Its value is enhanced by its association with one of Hollywood’s most beloved musicals. The gown remains a stunning example of costume design in cinema.
Lady Gaga’s Meat Dress
Worn by Lady Gaga at the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards, the meat dress sold for $125,000. Designed by Franc Fernandez, the dress was made entirely of raw beef, making a bold statement on the red carpet. Gaga’s unconventional fashion choices have always sparked conversation, and this dress is one of her most controversial. Its sale price reflects its unique place in fashion history and pop culture. The meat dress continues to be a symbol of avant-garde fashion.
Queen Victoria’s Coronation Gown
Queen Victoria’s coronation gown, worn in 1838, fetched $225,000 at auction. Designed with intricate gold embroidery and rich fabrics, the gown symbolized the grandeur of her reign. The dress’s historical significance and its royal association add to its immense value. It stands as a testament to Victoria’s long and influential rule. The gown remains a cherished piece of British history and royal fashion.
Madonna’s Jean-Paul Gaultier Cone Bra
Madonna’s cone bra, designed by Jean-Paul Gaultier for her 1990 Blond Ambition Tour, sold for $52,000. The bra became a defining element of Madonna’s provocative stage persona. Its bold design and the tour’s success made it an iconic piece of pop culture. The bra’s auction price highlights its impact on fashion and music history. It remains one of the most memorable stage costumes of all time.
Grace Kelly’s Wedding Dress
Grace Kelly’s wedding dress, designed by Helen Rose, was valued at $300,000. The gown, worn during her 1956 wedding to Prince Rainier III of Monaco, featured a high neckline, long sleeves, and a full skirt. Kelly’s transformation from Hollywood star to princess captivated the world, and her dress became a symbol of elegance and romance. The dress’s intricate lace and timeless design continue to inspire bridal fashion. Its value reflects its historical and cultural significance.
John Lennon’s Sgt. Pepper’s Uniform
John Lennon’s colorful military-style jacket, worn on the cover of The Beatles’ “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” sold for $200,000. The jacket’s vibrant design and its association with one of the most influential albums in music history contribute to its high value. Lennon’s fashion choices were as iconic as his music, making this jacket a significant piece of rock and roll history. The jacket’s auction price underscores its importance in music and pop culture. It remains a beloved symbol of the 1960s.
Princess Diana’s Wedding Dress
Designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel, Princess Diana’s wedding dress was valued at $115,000. The dress, worn during her 1981 wedding to Prince Charles, featured a 25-foot train and intricate lace detailing. Diana’s wedding was watched by millions, and her dress became a symbol of fairy-tale romance. The gown’s historical significance and its association with Diana’s legacy contribute to its immense value. It remains one of the most famous wedding dresses in history.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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