Believe it or not, a used and torn dress could raise hundreds of dollars for public media.
Sarah Silverman’s dress is up for auction in a major fundraiser for New Hampshire PBS. The actress and comedian has worn the outfit at star-studded events. Apparently, she’s even ripped it.
“I’m very happy to support New Hampshire PBS with this lil’ sartorial sacrifice. (I’m pretty sure this makes me a hero?),” Silverman said in a news release. “Sure, this dress has seen better days, but hey, she’s got character! Bid high, and together we can help keep NHPBS bringing the quality content I grew up on!”
Bidding on the black and cream Miu Miu starts at $200. The auction page described the dress’ condition as “well-loved with large tears” under both arms.
Bidding runs May 6 through June 7.
The 51st NHPBS spring auction already has more than 1,400 items listed online and another 200 on the way, auction manager Diane LaRochelle said in an emailed response to questions from Current.
In addition to Silverman’s dress, those items include a hockey stick signed by legendary Boston Bruins players and a vacation to the Yorkshire Dales.
“Our reach extends far beyond New England, attracting generous donations from across the country and even beyond,” LaRochelle said. “We’ve built lasting relationships with local businesses who are like family — they donate year after year, making the Auction a true community event.”
Last year, the spring auction raised $155,000, and the goal this year is to hit $165,000, LaRochelle said.
Silverman said in the release that she bought the dress to wear to the Emmys when she was nominated for I Love You America and also wore it to the Vanity Fair Oscars after-party this year.
“Time to auction you off for charity,” she said in an Instagram post March 14, adding, “Hopefully someone will want a slightly torn (but mendable!) dress that reeks of Silverman.”
In a reply, NHPBS asked whether the station was the charity. Silverman, who is from New Hampshire, answered “done! sent you a message.”
The winning bidder will also receive a signed Polaroid from Silverman.