ARCHIVE - 1950s Frank Usher Jacquard Blue and Champagne Evening Dress

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Exceptional late 1950s evening gown by high-end British fashion house Frank Usher, crafted in a striking shade of azure blue, complete with iridescent metallic jacquard detail. The bodice has a squared off neckline and thick straps, with a slight V shaped plunge to the rear. The dress fastens down the back with an original blue metal zip, concealed with a placket, and is topped off with a hook and eye closure. The skirt features a large bow detail to the front middle section, with the second tier gathered slightly to add volume to the lower portion. The front of the skirt is shorter than at the rear, allowing for movement and showcasing the wearer’s chosen heels! The inside of the top section of the dress is lined in a coordinating acetate colour, with the lower portion lined in a stiff blue mesh to create volume and structure. The dress fabric is the real star of the show with a sheen when it catches the light, finished off in a champagne toned iridescent jacquard pattern, reminiscent of winter trees or more abstract branch designs.

In great vintage condition overall, with excellent preservation of fabric. We note along the bottom hemline some areas of darker staining, as a result of grazing the floor. These are virtually undetectable when wearing and only noticeable with the dress in hand. A best fit for up to a UK 8-10 or US 4-6 and this fits our same size model well - she has an enviable waist measurement!

MEASUREMENTS
Bust - 35 in. (88.9 cm)
Waist - 25 in. (63.5 cm)
Hip - 42 in. (106.7 cm)
Length - 57 in. (144.8 cm)
Shoulders - FREE

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