Princess Diana: Memorial Exhibition officially open to the public on Friday, September 2, marking the 25th anniversary of the tragic death of the Princess of Wales. Located at The Shops at Crystals in Las Vegas, the 10,000 square foot building boasts more than 700 royal artifacts. That includes eight authentic Diana evening gowns taken by Pink Ribbons Crusadea 45+ year old charity that buys memorabilia for display and raises funds to fight breast cancer.
The exhibition has 12 rooms and a specific space, titled “wedding room of the century”, invites couples to tie the knot atop an impressive reproduction of David and Elizabeth Emanuel’s wedding dress by Diana. Of all the evening gowns on display in the show, 8 were genuine – meaning they were actually worn by Lady Spencer, and they all come with important stories.
While many people know about “revenge dress“marks a pivotal moment in the Princess’ life, they may not be familiar with the pink ‘barbecue dress’. Here’s our first look at Diana’s authentic wardrobe at the show. show and it has a fascinating story behind it.The dress has a hidden connection to Lillie Langtry, whose great-grandmother was the mistress of Charles’ great-grandfather, King Edward VII – just like Camilla Parker-Bowles is Charles’ mistress.
Likewise, the LBD designed by Gianni Versace has a meaning of its own. Featured in the “Fashion Icons” room, it marks the beginning of a new era of style for Princess Diana as a single woman to follow her separated from Charles.
Image source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sarah Wasilak
Show curator and producer David Corelli emphasized to POPSUGAR how difficult it is to get your hands on such iconic products. “[Diana] was one of the first royals to auction off her dresses,” he said during a media briefing on September 1. Most are privately owned, but some are public. You must be lucky. ”
Although Corelli has seen countless gowns throughout his career, Princess Diana’s collection still fascinates him. “These are couture dresses made for a princess,” he explains. “That’s what I noticed the most when I finally saw them on display. Every single one of them has a remarkable level of detail and elegance that you won’t notice in the photos.”
The dresses will be on display in Las Vegas for a 10-year stay, and Corelli will continue to bring in other models when the opportunity arises, in an effort to keep the collection fresh over time.
Ahead, find eight striking looks from Princess Diana: Memorial Exhibition and learn the stories behind them. To see them in person, you can buy general admission tickets, which start at $29, Online or at the door.
