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ARCHIVE - 1940s Claire McCardell by Townley Navy Circle Print Dress

£0.00 Sold out
A very elegant mid to late 1940s Claire McCardell circle print dress, with V shaped back and front neckline. Made from a soft navy silk, featuring a repeat circle motif in ochre and cream, this dress stands out as a classic post war design piece with a contemporary flair. The sleeve fabric is gathered at the shoulder seam and falls to the waistband, creating a soft, flowing feel to the garment's construction. The bust area is also gathered in the centre to accentuate the silhouette of the wearer, which flares out at the hip in a flattering A-line shape. Although unlined, the skirt is opaque and has enough folds to create volume. In excellent vintage condition with no faults of any note and will fit up to a size 10 UK or 6 US. Of note, the arm holes are slight in this dress so it would suit slender arms, that said, a notch could easily be cut to widen the hole.

Note on Designer:

Claire McCardell was born in 1905 and travelled to Paris in her early twenties to seek design inspiration from Europe. She began working with Robert Turk at Townley Frocks in 1931, and after his death a year later, she became chief designer for the company. McCardell's work truly thrived with the onset of World War 2, which saw her use readily available materials such as jersey, denim and calico in her designs. Her command of simple, versatile silhouettes makes her garments a wonderful addition to the collectors' wardrobe of notable American designers.

MEASUREMENTS:
BUST: 36 in ( 91.44 cm )
WAIST: 27 in. ( 68.58 cm )
HIP: 42 in. ( 106.68 cm )
SHOULDER: 17 in. ( 43.18 cm )
LENGTH: 44 in. ( 111.76 cm )

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