1988 Documented Christian Lacroix Couture Rose Print Dress
A true treasure, this incredible dress walked the runway as part of Christian Lacroix’s memorable Spring 1988 collection. This rare and highly collectable piece is from Lacroix’s short-lived Luxe label. Conceived as an ultra-high-end ready-to-wear line, Luxe pieces were constructed to near-haute couture levels and sold almost exclusively to couture clients or by special order. An identical dress was captured in photographs from the designer’s atelier during this period.
The dress combines technical brilliance with theatrical flourish, and features a colourful and bold rose print in the finest silk embossed organza. The magnificent construction is a combination of machine and hand stitching of the very finest quality. The dress is lined in white silk with handmade shoulder pads for precise structure, and there is a white taffeta silk underdress that is integrally made with its own secondary fastening zip. The outer organza dress zips up over the top of the taffeta underdress, and the arm cuffs also have wrist zips for ease of access. This piece has a beautiful, tailored shift construction and a show-stopping mini fishtail on the hem that incorporates the fabric of the dress. There is an overlaid additional black triple-folded train to complete the look - a cheeky detail typical of the exuberant designer that made it a delight to behold on the runway. The dress fastens with a hidden white zip and hook-and-eye at the back. This incredible dress is a rare example of Christian Lacroix’s early designs: exquisitely made, recognisable to those in-the-know, and of archival significance.
The condition is very good to excellent with only very gentle signs of wear. There are no faults of any note. It is marked a French 40, which is a UK 12 or US 8, but vintage sizes vary hugely so please check our measurements below carefully. It is labelled 100% Silk and the fabric has no stretch. We believe this would best fit a size UK 10, US 6.
MEASUREMENTS:
BUST - 36 in. (91.5cm)
WAIST - 30 in. (76 cm)
HIP - 38 in. (96.5 cm)
LENGTH - 36 in. (91.5 cm)
SHOULDERS - 16 in. (40.5 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