Pierre Balmain 1950s Haute Couture Cream Jacquard Two Piece Bridal Set
This timeless 1950s New Look style Haute Couture two piece by Pierre Balmain is in impeccable condition with exceptional line and form. The soft cream jacquard fabric is embossed with a romantic rose design and features wide bands of ivory grosgrain trim over the short sleeves and square neckline. Having worked closely with Dior, Balmain was championed by high society such as The Duchess Of Windsor, Katherine Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich. There is much influence of the glamorous New Look style to be found in Balmain's early work, which is distinguished by small feminine waistlines and bell-shaped floor length skirts and this stunning set is no exception. The bodice separate is tailored to meet an attractive point at each breast and the waistline is synched beautifully to exacerbate the feminine hourglass silhouette. The angular boat neckline complements the soft pleats and curve of the skirt perfectly. There is a central zip fastening on the bodice, which is designed to be worn tucked inside of the skirt. Tiny hook and eye fastenings have been sewn into the underside of the bodice to attach to the inner side of the waistband on the skirt, giving the set a seamless appearance when worn. There is a central zip fastening at the reverse of the skirt that aligns with the zip on the bodice. This piece is altogether stunning and would best suit a US size 4, UK size 8, with some give in the hip and bust for a small-waisted US 6 / UK 10. Our model is a UK 6-8 and 5ft 4in. (163cm), the top was roomy and the skirt was snug.
Measurements:
BODICE:
Bust - 36 in (91.2cm)
Waist - 27.5 in (68.4cm)
Length - 18 in (45.5cm)
SKIRT:
Waist - 29in (66cm)
Hip - 40 in (101.3cm)
Length - 30 in (76cm)
Full Length - 47.17 in (119.8cm)
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