1960s Italian Alta Moda Ruched Dress with Rose Appliques
This romantic chiffon gown is Italian couture, known as 'Alta Moda', and was made in the very late 1950s to early 1960s. The piece is unlabelled, but we believe it references the famous Valentino "Fiesta" dress from 1959. The draping of the fabric is exquisite. Plumes of deep coral manmade chiffon is ruched and wrapped around the body, gathering at the front into frothy rose-shaped appliqués that fall the length of the dress. The thick, padded outer layer is lined with matte coral silk. Tailored to a strapless style, it has a bustier top which is boned inside. The high-volume skirt is designed to cocoon the body and add drama. The lining is a work of art; a layer of stiff white tulle is followed by nine layers of lightweight pink net and an internal layer of coral satin for a comfortable wear. The dress fastens with a tonal zip and hook-and-eye clasp at the front, which is hidden under the appliqué roses.
The dress is in very good and in some cases excellent vintage condition and presents beautifully - we have photographed just as she is without additional under-garments. The only thing to note on the outside of the dress is a small amount of colour change due to age to the upper layers of the bodice on the front and back. There have been some well-executed repairs done to some of the layers of the chiffon. Some of the internal layers of pink net are torn in one or two places, but this is not noticeable when worn as they form the under layers. There are no labels remaining in the dress so please check the below measurements closely. The fabric has no stretch to it. We believe it would best fit a size UK 6-8, US 2-4.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 30 in. (76 cm)
WAIST - 26 in. (66 cm)
HIP - 36.5 in. (93 cm)
LENGTH - 34 in. (86 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