The Princess Diana Museum is proud to highlight a historic moment in fashion, culture, and philanthropy with the acquisition and preservation of the Bellville Sassoon “Caring Dress”. It’s one of Princess Diana’s most beloved and frequently worn ensembles. This exquisite silk, floral-printed day dress holds emotional and historical significance. The dress earned its cherished nickname for the warmth and compassion it came to represent throughout Diana’s humanitarian journey. Designed by the esteemed fashion house Bellville Sassoon, the dress made its first public appearance on January 31, 1988, during Diana’s official visit to Australia. Coincidentally, this was the day Renae Plant—now the curator and founder of The Princess Diana Museum—met the Princess for the second time. It was a moment that would later add profound meaning to her role in preserving the dress for future generations.
Over the years, the “Caring Dress” became a staple in Diana’s working wardrobe and was worn during some of her most caring and impactful engagements. The bright, inviting floral print reflected the children and hospital patients and became a symbol of her warmth and accessibility. Diana was photographed wearing this dress in Sydney, Windsor, Lagos, Hackney, London, São Paulo, Spain, and on several charity visits between 1988 and 1992. She was always radiating kindness, empathy, and grace. Designer David Sassoon lovingly coined the term “Caring Dress,” showcasing Diana’s intentional choice to wear it during moments where compassion mattered the most. Its cheerful design became a part of her visual language of comfort, offering a soft and reassuring presence during often emotional visits.
The narrative of this dress reached a powerful full-circle moment when Renae Plant successfully acquired it at auction for $520,000, which was a moment captured by Inside Edition. Overcome with emotion, Renae collapsed with joy knowing that she was bringing home a piece of history that had shaped her early experiences with Diana. The dress now holds a prominent place in The Princess Diana Museum; which allows visitors to view it in stunning 3D detail.
“The Caring Dress was never about color and fabric; instead, it carried compassion sewn into every seam. We continue to honor Diana’s legacy by preserving her iconic wardrobe pieces, personal artifacts, and meaningful memories that showcase her humanity, elegance, and global impact. To experience the Bellville Sassoon “Caring Dress” as well as other rare and historically significant pieces, visitors are welcome to explore The Princess Diana Museum’s immersive digital collection and get closer to the life of one of the world’s most beloved figures,” said a spokesperson for The Princess Diana Museum.
About The Princess Diana Museum—
The Princess Diana Museum preserves the life, style, and humanitarian legacy of Princess Diana through rare artifacts, immersive exhibits, and historically significant fashion pieces that are part of their private collection. The Princess Diana Museum offers exclusive access with a one-year online membership, exploring over 2,700 iconic historical artifacts online with certain provenance in an immersive 3D experience that shows her life, legacy, and enduring influence.
Dedicated to education and remembrance, the interactive museum brings Diana’s enduring compassion and global impact to audiences from all around the world. For more information, please visit the website today at https://www.theprincessandtheplatypus.org/.
Contact Information –
The Princess Diana Museum
E-Mail ID – info@theprincessandplatypusfoundation.org