1930s Floral Satin Maxi Dress
This incredible bias-cut satin full length dress was created in the 1930s and retailed by Kendal Milne & Co Ltd, the best department store in Manchester and a division of Harrods from 1919 until 1959. Hand-crafted from smooth cobalt blue satin with striking purple and white florals and a green foliage print. The fabric has an attractive sheen and the dress is full of character with lovely Art Deco details; it has sunburst pleats at the bust and draped sleeves in a style typical of this era. It fastens at the side with hook-and-eye clasps and poppers and has a sash belt to tie at the back meaning the wearer can create a more flexible fit. The bias-cut is supremely flattering, allowing the cloth to lightly follow the shape of the body without being clingy.
This piece is 90 years old and is in extraordinary vintage condition with no issues at all. Due to its age, it has no size or composition label so please check our measurements closely. The fabric does not have any stretch to it but the bias-cut allows for slight flexibility on the measurements below. Our model (5ft 4in / 163cm) is a UK 6-8 or US 2-4 and this dress was a good fit.
MEASUREMENTS:
BUST - 32 in. (81 cm)
WAIST - 30 in. (76 cm)
HIP - 42 in. ( 107 cm)
LENGTH - 63 in. (160 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