1970s Ted Lapidus Fairytale Pastel Silk Chiffon Dress

A 1970s Ted Lapidus couture silk ombre handkerchief dress. This is an absolutely extraordinary piece of vintage by revered French designer Ted Lapidus. We aren't convinced any written description will ever do justice to just how incredible and elaborate this piece is. It is quite simply, a work of art. The main design element is the sensational double tiered and hand-dyed ombre shades of silk crepe in a dazzling array of warm pastels; pinks, lilacs, burgundy, yellow and indigo which pair beautifully with the two circular cut under-skirts of salmon coloured organza. The two top layers of the skirt have an unusual pattern cutting technique so that only the corners of the skirt panels are stitched - this gives both a handkerchief and draping effect to the skirts. The overall look is something very exotic and Middle Eastern looking.

There is an unusual embroidered metallic meshwork lace effect overlay; also a very colourful affair with the colours better reflected on the straps of the dress. We've never seen anything this good come to market from this designer for a long time; t is worthy of museum acquisition. Condition wise it is absolutely fabulous and we note just one small area of lightening to the crepe on a rear panel. This is easily covered by the falling handkerchief hem. On construction, this is as good as anything produced for haute couture - virtually everything having been hand stitched. There is a zip fastening on the left side of the dress. It is a very petite size and a will fit up to UK 4-6 US size 0.

MEASUREMENTS:
BUST MEASURED FLAT - 29in. (74cm)
WAIST - 28in. (71cm)
HIP - 42in. (97cm)
LENGTH - 55 in. (140cm)
ACROSS SHOULDERS - 11in. (28cm)