1997 Valentino Brown and Lilac Devore Velvet and Lace Dress
This Valentino Boutique dress is crafted from a lightweight silk-mix devoré fabric. We have seen identical prints in different colourways in both the Fall 1997 and Spring 1998 collections. It has a background of deep burgundy-brown crepe detailed with a textured, scale-like pattern in glossy lilac velvet. The dress is cut to a relaxed, flowy shape with a slash-neckline and pretty low cowl-back. The neck of the cowl has a weight hidden inside the fabric to hold its shape. The cowl also reveals the nude sheer silk crepe lining the back. The waistband cinches the waist only slightly, allowing the top of the dress to drape over the top of the waist. The devoré fabric falls to thigh length and gives way to a sheer panelled flounce of burgundy-brown lace. The dress is lined at the top with chocolate-brown sheer silk crepe but the skirt is unlined. It fastens under the left arm with a hidden tonal burgundy zip and hook-and-eye clasp.
Beautifully made in Italy, the dress is in excellent vintage condition with no flaws of any note and looks barely worn. It is crafted from 82% Viscose, 18% Silk. It has no size label so please double-check our measurements as the fabric has no stretch. Our model's sizes are: Bust: 33" (84cm), Waist 26" (66cm), Hips: 34" (86cm) and 5' 7" (170cm) and she's a size UK 6, US 2. This had room to spare and we'd suggest up to a UK 10-12 or US 6-8 due to the fluidity of the cut.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 38 in. (97 cm)
WAIST - 30 in. (76 cm)
HIP - 44 in. (112 cm)
LENGTH - 40 in. (102 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. We have an extensive offline collection. It is helpful if you can let us know your size, style, favourite colour to wear and perhaps your budget in advance of your appointment.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
Clients may wish to bring modern shapewear. You may also wish to bring favourite footwear. We often find a classic pair of nude shoes work well when trying-on, or gold and silver. We have a huge variety of slip dresses and petticoats to complete your look. Many of which are also for sale.
Do you have a price range?
Many of our lower priced pieces, under £250, are not available to buy online. Dresses usually start at £150 and go up to £30,000 for the very best archival couture. Our bridalwear price points range from £1,000 to £20,000.
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 purchases 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.
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