Falling for Princess Diana: A Superfan's Emotional Auction Moment

Ranae Plant celebrates her winning bid moments after a heartfelt collapse.

Sometimes fashion moves you—sometimes it floors you. That’s exactly what happened to Ranae Plant, a lifelong Princess Diana admirer, who found herself overcome with emotion at a recent Beverly Hills auction.

The moment her $400,000 bid won Diana’s iconic floral “Caring Dress,” Ranae dropped to the ground in joy, shock, and tears. Within moments, she was back on her feet, celebrating a dream fulfilled in front of a stunned but supportive crowd.

When the heart can't hold it in—Ranae hits the floor in disbelief.

Diana wearing the dress during a hospital visit, 1980s.

This wasn’t just any dress. It was the dress Diana wore during a 1988 royal tour in Australia—when Ranae met her in person as a child.

Known as the “Caring Dress,” the blue silk creation with its rainbow floral pattern became a signature piece worn often by Diana while visiting hospitals and charities. She knew its joyful colors brought smiles to patients, especially children.

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Hosted by Julien’s Auctions at the Peninsula Hotel in Beverly Hills, the event featured more than 300 of Princess Diana’s personal items—making it the largest offering of her belongings since her passing in 1997.

There were handbags, hats, designer dresses, and even iconic shoes from holiday appearances. One highlight was a collection of pieces by fashion designer Elizabeth Emanuel, who co-created Diana’s famous 1981 wedding gown.

“Princess Diana’s timeless beauty and enduring style continues to resonate with so many of her fans today,”said Emanuel. “I wanted to share some of the precious pieces I’ve been preserving for years, knowing they will be loved again.”

Afternoon tea with scones, jam, and flowers. Rainbow tea cakes from the event.

The Verandah Ballroom at the Peninsula was transformed into a Royal Afternoon Tea party. Champagne flowed, rainbow pastries dazzled, and vintage china set the stage for one of the most elegant auctions ever held.

Among the invited guests was The Princess Network, there to witness the magic—and emotion—unfold.

Each piece came with provenance and emotional resonance, reminding the world how Diana’s fashion choices told a larger story of compassion, elegance, and quiet rebellion.

Julien’s Auctions Executive Director Martin Nolan summed it up beautifully:

“Princess Diana’s legacy lives on not only through her humanitarian work but also in the timeless elegance of her style, which continues to inspire the world.”

This event didn’t just sell garments. It revived memories, rekindled love, and reminded us all why Princess Diana will forever be the Queen of Hearts.