ARCHIVE - Pierre Balmain 1960s Haute Couture Ivory Silk Linen Bridal Dress Suit
This magnificent Pierre Balmain 1960s Haute Couture silk linen bridal dress suit in ivory is of superb quality and in impeccable condition. Extolled for the sculptural quality that characterises his work, Balmain lovingly described dressmaking as "the architecture of movement", and was favoured by iconic figures Marlene Dietrich and Katharine Hepburn as well as famously Queen Sirikit of Thailand during her 1960 tour of the United States. This piece is nothing short of a perfect example. The opulent silk linen fabric is of considerable weight and therefore retains the line and dramatic shape of the garments effortlessly. Soft candlewick appliqué trim embellishes the gown throughout with decadent floral textures and are used to define the neckline and hem. The dress is sleeveless with wide off shoulder straps either side of a graceful boat neckline. There is no seam at the waistline, and the dress is expertly comprised of 4 vertical panels which run the length of the piece with an exquisite cut to the curve of the waist and hip and pristine tailoring over the bust to create a truly fairytale aesthetic. There is a concealed zip fastening at the reverse positioned off centre to the wearer's left. The overcoat is designed to be worn open with a vertical cascade from the high collar to the floor to show stopping effect. The strong central hem at the front of the piece is densely trimmed for the full length of the piece and also on the cuffs on each of the 3 quarter length sleeves, leaving the reverse unembellished to showcase the streamlined tailored panels. This exceptional piece is fully lined in ivory silk, and reinforced beautifully on the hems and cuffs. A sensational choice bridal wear, would fit up to US size 4, UK size 8.
MEASUREMENTS:
DRESS:
LENGTH - 55.8" (142 cms)
BUST - 34" (86.3 cms)
WAIST - 27.5" (69.8 cms)
HIP - 36" (91.5 cms)
OVERCOAT:
LENGTH - 59.5" (151 cms)
BUST - 34"(86.3 cms)
WAIST - 34"(86.3 cms)
HIP - 38" (96.5 cms)
Pickup currently unavailable at CIRCA VINTAGE
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