The legacy of Mr. Darcy is as strong as ever! The iconic white button-down shirt, central to one of television’s most memorable moments, has sold at auction for a remarkable $25,000.

 

The 1995 BBC adaptation of  “Pride and Prejudice” captivated viewers with its portrayal of Jane Austen’s beloved characters. But the scene where Colin Firth, as the aloof Mr. Darcy, takes an unexpected dip in a lake had a singular impact.  Emerging dripping wet, he encounters Elizabeth Bennet, his sharp wit barely concealing his growing attraction. The moment perfectly encapsulates the simmering tension between the two characters and the unspoken desires bubbling beneath the surface of their Regency-era propriety.

 

While unscripted, costume designer Dinah Collin’s ingenious decision to dress Firth in clinging, wet linen transformed the scene into an instant classic. The shirt itself became a symbol of Darcy’s vulnerability, hinting at hidden depths beneath his reserved exterior. It sparked countless sighs, launched a thousand fan-fictions, and solidified Firth’s status as the quintessential romantic hero.

 

The Firth auction was part of a larger sale featuring iconic garments from the legendary costume house Cosprop. Proceeds benefit The Bright Foundation, an arts education charity close to the heart of Oscar-winning costume designer John Bright. Film and television costumes, especially those associated with beloved characters or pivotal scenes, hold immense value for collectors. They represent more than mere garments; they embody a moment in time, a piece of cinematic history, and a tangible connection to the stories that move us.

Ntianu Obiora
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Ntianu Obiora is a versatile creative professional with over a decade of experience in publishing, marketing, communications, and digital strategy. She is the Online Editor at THEWILL DOWNTOWN