Cilla Black’s Iconic Outfits Auctioned for £40K Charity Boost!

Cilla Black, a beloved television presenter and singer from Liverpool, was known for her glamorous style and memorable outfits throughout her career. Recently, her family decided to auction off a collection of her designer clothes to benefit Variety, the Children's Charity, which supports children in need. The auction was a great success, raising over £40,000 for the charity. The collection featured 246 outfits, including bespoke gowns, high-end fashion pieces, and vintage creations from famous designers like Biba. Each piece had its own story, having been worn by Cilla during her performances on stage or appearances on television.

One of the standout items in the auction was a blue evening gown from the 1960s, featuring a v-neck and full-length sleeves trimmed with ostrich feathers. Cilla wore this elegant dress at the Royal Variety Performance in 1969, which was the first time the event was broadcast in full color. Another notable piece was a turquoise Thea Porter dress, worn by Cilla while singing 'Bring Me Sunshine' on the Morecambe & Wise Show in 1971. This dress fetched £800 at the auction. There was also a red jumpsuit adorned with beads in a geometric pattern on the shoulders and sleeves, which Cilla wore on her popular show 'Surprise Surprise' in the mid-1980s. Although it was expected to sell for between £100 and £200, it ended up selling for £540, showing the strong interest from fans and collectors.

John Cameron, who works at Nesbits Fine Art and Antique Auctions in Portsmouth, expressed his delight at the outcome of the sale. He noted that every single outfit found a new owner, with particular interest in the pantomime costumes and the stylish pieces from the 1960s and 1970s. The decision to donate Cilla's clothes was made by her family to mark the 10th anniversary of her passing at the age of 72. Her son, Robert Willis, explained that the collection represents a life well lived in the spotlight, with almost every item having been worn on stage or on television. The auction not only honored Cilla's legacy but also provided much-needed support to children through Variety, the Children's Charity. Fans and admirers of Cilla Black now have a chance to own a piece of her history, while her memory continues to make a positive impact.