1960s Jean Varon Black Lace Maxi Dress
A very striking Jean Varon black lace maxi dress which dates from the late 1960s with a dramatic sleeve design that has not one but two lace balloon sections and an elongated cuff. We believe it dates to the late-1960s and found this editorial photograph of a Jean Varon dress with a very similar silhouette that was taken in 1969. The lacework is an abstract floral design reminiscent of the flower power look from the 'swinging 60s' London scene. The dress has a high empire line bodice and the strapless skirt element has been fashioned from what looks like raw silk but this is probably a man made blend due to new fabric technologies being most popular at the time. Fastens to the back with the original zip.
In fabulous vintage condition; it looks virtually unworn. The only thing if we're being very, very picky is that there are a few fabric strands that are separating on the very bottom edge of the dress; absolutely impossible to see when worn. Labelled a UK 10, this is a small fit and best for a size UK 8 or US 4 on account of the small bust.
Notes on Designer: John Bates was a highly regarded British designer who began his label Jean Varon in 1959. Famous for sheer panels, short hemlines and bare midriffs, he was one of the pioneers of the miniskirt and trousers for women. He chose the name Jean Varon in order to appear to be French and also because it meant he was the only designer under the letter 'V' in the rag trade book. In 1965, he designed outfits in Op Art prints for Diana Rigg for her role as Emma Peel in The Avengers. John Bates, along with Ossie Clark, Gina Fratini and Bill Gibb, pioneered a romantic and dramatic mood in fashion in the early 1970s.
MEASUREMENTS
Bust - 32 in. (81.3 cm)
Waist - 32 in. (81.3 cm)
Hip - 36 in. (91.4 cm)
Length - 58 in. (147.3 cm)
Shoulders - 16.5 in. (41.9 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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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