Dame Judi Dench Oscars outfit up for auction

The outfit was worn by Dame Judi Dench at the Oscars in 2006

An outfit worn by Dame Judi Dench at the Oscars is being auctioned to raise money for a Surrey theatre.

The multi award-winning actress is patron of the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre in Guildford.

All proceeds from the sale of the four-piece silk outfit, which she wore at the ceremony in Los Angeles in 2006, will raise funds to help turn the venue into a cultural community hub.

Dame Judi said: "I do hope my beautiful gown will raise some money for the vital funds to renovate this wonderful theatre."

"I love the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre and I have very happy memories of playing there in the past," she added.

A spokesperson for the theatre said they were "honoured" that the actress had donated the "truly stunning ensemble".

Dame Judi wore the mint and white gown, inspired by traditional Indian dress, when she was nominated as best actress for Mrs Henderson Presents.

The gown is accompanied at the online auction by a special message and signed card from the actress.

The signature piece of the outfit is a "magnificent, sumptuously embroidered coat dress", according to a theatre spokesperson.

The online auction is raising funds for the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre

There is a matching embellished slip dress, silk trousers and a long embroidered scarf.

The outfit was created by Sandeep Kholsa and Abu Jani, two of India’s most coveted fashion designers who have dressed many celebrities, including Priyanka Chopra and Beyoncé.

The online auction is due to close on 18 June.

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