1960s Hardy Amies Couture Silk Organza Dress with Hand Made Net Flowers

£745.00
This magnificent late 1950s or early 1960s Hardy Aimes couture silk organza occasion dress is a fantastic example of this celebrated designer's artful tailoring and use of structured silks. Best renowned for his appointment in 1955 to HRH Queen Elizabeth II as Royal Dressmaker, Aimes created pieces for many public figures, such as Vivien Leigh, Deborah Kerr, the Duchess of Devonshire, Princess Michael of Kent and Barbara Cartland. This remarkable organza and net couture piece is embellished throughout with hand-made silk flowers, atop of the neutral coloured net underlay. Flowers adorn the wide off-shoulder straps and frame the open neckline with dramatic effect. The skilfully corseted bodice is underwired at the breast, accentuating the waist and bust. The bust features a sweetheart shaped band of chiffon net, with a glamorous trim of upwards facing pleats. The full skirt falls just below the knee, and is well structured with two layers of petticoats in net and stiff organza. The neckline at the reverse of the dress graduates in a gently distressed V formation to finish just below the shoulder blades. A central zip runs down the back and is concealed by a neatly positioned row of popper fastenings. This is an altogether resplendent couture piece in excellent vintage condition. Would best fit US size 2 - 4, UK size 8.

  • BUST
    32 in. (81.28 cm)
  • WAIST
    26 in. (66.04 cm)
  • HIP
    36 in. (91.44 cm)
  • LENGTH
    33 in. (83.82 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