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1970s Gina Fratini Cream Silk and Lace Wedding Dress

£1,895.00
A fine and rare 1970s Gina Fratini cream silk and cotton mousseline dress which really encapsulates the bohemian aesthetic and was almost certainly commissioned as a wedding dress or for a very special event. Gina was renowned for her romantic and luxury take on 'Victoriana' during the late 1960s all the way through to the 1980s. Elizabeth Taylor famously chose a medieval style gown for her second marriage to Richard Burton and she was very popular with Diana, Princess of Wales, who wore a near identical dress on her tour of Canada in 1983 (as pictured). This particular piece we feel is a little earlier; from the late 1970s or possibly early 1980s and is one of the most extravagant designs we have seen outside of a museum.

The floor length dress has an empire waist and is made of the finest cream silk and cotton muslin materials, with lace insert details, in a style reminiscent of the 1850s. The gathered sleeves tie with a ribbon at the cuff, whilst the intricate bodice has an integral caplet overlay to the cotton blouse element. Gina often used antique lace in her work and there is a lavish amount of beautiful machine lace and ruffle trim, interwoven with a cream ribbon to match the silk. The fabric is gathered to the waist, which features a ribbon and lace decorative belt.

There are three skirts which together have a lovely weight to them and excite movement: the first two are liners in a beautiful quality cream rayon that add volume. The final cream silk overlay is trimmed with lace all the way down to the hem, which falls slightly longer at the back, creating a short train. The dress fastens with buttons down the back of the bodice, poppers for the waist belt and a zip for the skirt portion.

The details on this dress are truly spectacular and it is in wonderful vintage condition, with no stains or flaws of any note. She has been carefully cleaned by us and is now remarkably fresh looking and ready to wear for her next big occasion. The design would best fit up to a UK 10, or 6 US. Our model is a UK 6-8, US 2-4 so there was room to spare.

MEASUREMENTS:
BUST: 32 in. ( 81.28 cm )
WAIST: 28 in. ( 71.12 cm )
HIP: 44 in. ( 111.76 cm )
LENGTH: 55 in. ( 139.7 cm )

Pickup available at CIRCA VINTAGE

Usually ready in 24 hours

F.A.Q.

Will you set anything aside for me before I come?

We are happy to find anything you may be interested in from our website - please let us know a week in advance. 

We also have an extensive offline collection. If you let us know your size, style, favourite colour to wear and perhaps your budget, we can browse through our archive in advance of your appointment. 
Do I need to bring anything with me?

Clients may wish to bring modern shapewear when trying on garments from certain eras, especially the 1950s. Vintage clothing was often worn with undergarments that shaped the waist and as such is tailored for them.


We have a huge variety of slip dresses and petticoats to complete your look; many of which are also for sale.


You may also wish to bring your favourite footwear. We often find a classic pair of nude shoes work well when trying on, or a pair in gold or silver.
Do you have a price range?

Many of our lower-priced pieces (under £150) are not available to buy online. Our prices range from £80 - £600 for separates. Dresses start at around £150 and go up to £2,500 for the very best antique pieces and designer vintage. Our bridalwear ranges from £300 - £3,000.
Can I bring anyone with me?

Yes but please do let us know the size of your party in advance.
Where can I get alterations?

We offer some alterations in house. Should you need alterations we cannot provide, we can refer you to one of our tried and trusted tailors.
Do you have an after-care service?

We will advise you on the best way to clean and preserve your vintage pieces and can also recommend trusted local dry cleaners.
Can I cancel my appointment?

You are free to cancel but please do give us as much notice as possible. If you cancel less than 24 hours before your appointment, you will be invoiced a late cancellation fee of £25.
Where's the showroom?

Our address is Circa Vintage, 87A Lansdowne Way London SW8 2PB

Upon arrival, buzz the 87A button on the gate or call us 020 7736 5038 to let you in.
Do you have parking?

We offer free, secure, off-street parking but it is a tight squeeze – so do let us know in advance if you will be needing this and we can make sure that there is space available.
How do I get there by public transport?

Underground:

Stockwell (7 min walk) - Northern and Victoria Lines

Nine Elms (9 min walk) – Northern Line

Overground:

Wandsworth Road (13 min walk) – Westbound to Clapham Junction / Eastbound to Dalston Junction
What payment methods do you accept?

Cash, credit/debit card, bank transfer, contactless, Paypal