Entertainment

Wallis Simpson's lingerie, handbags up for auction

March 1, 2011 / 5:30 PM EST / CBS/AP

Seen here is a Louis Vuitton vanity case, circa 1960s, which forms part of a collection of personal items belonging to the late Duchess of Windsor. AP

(CBS/AP) LONDON - With the Academy Award-winning "The King's Speech" only upping Wallis Simpson's profile, the timing couldn't be more perfect for an auction of her former belongings.

Pictures: The King's Speech
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Lingerie, handbags and luggage once owned by Simpson, the American divorcee who shook the British monarchy, are due to be auctioned off in London.

Kerry Taylor Auctioneers says that items due to be put up for sale include a scarlet chiffon nightdress, complete with a full length cape, and a 1960s Louis Vuitton vanity case. The auction is set for March 17.

The story of Simpson, for whom King Edward VIII abdicated the throne in 1936, continues to fascinate. It's currently being turned into a movie, "W.E.," directed by Madonna. It was also a key part of "The King's Speech," which was crowned best picture Sunday at the Academy Awards ceremony and won four Oscars in all, including a best-actor prize for Colin Firth as stammering British ruler George VI, Edward's brother.

The sale could be quite lucrative if previous auctions of Simpson's possessions are anything to go by. A set of jewels once owned by the socialite fetched nearly 8 million pounds ($13 million) at auction when they were sold by Sotheby's two months ago.