1980s John Charles Pink Taffeta Ballgown Dress

This is a great example of 1980s evening wear by well-known occasion wear designer John Charles who was most active throughout the 70s and 80s. This is a substantial manmade taffeta evening gown which could pass for silk with its subtle sheen and quality feel. The dress has some great design details like the two floral rosettes on the wide ruched waistband, the inverted gathered bust line and a full gathered skirt. The dress fastens to the rear with a concealed zip. The fabric colour is in between cerise and bubblegum pink. There is a deep flounce on the bottom hem and the skirt has three layers to create volume; the first layer and closest to the skin, is a straight cut acetate lining; the second is a stiffened tulle that mirrors the design of the top layer of the skirt with its attached deep flounce; the top layer then sits neatly over all giving the dress a very full and pleasing look. Perfect for events, parties or even as an alternative wedding dress.

Condition wise, this is excellent with very gentle signs of wear and no notable faults. Paired with the quality you'd expect from John Charles this dress is a knock-out and looks very fresh and modern. It is labelled a vintage UK size 14 which now equates to a modern size UK size 12 or US 8. Our model is a UK 8-10 and she liked the fit even if it was a bit roomy.

MEASUREMENTS:

Bust - 35 in (88.9 cm)
Waist - 29 in (73.7 cm)
Hip - 38 in (96.5 cm)
Length - 57.5 in (146 cm)
Shoulders - FREE