1960s Jean Varon White Sleeveless Ruffle Lace Dress
This 1960s white lace dress was made by British label Jean Varon and is a beautiful example of the designer's penchant for romantic detailing, synonymous with his work during this era. The dress is comprised of sheer white chiffon and cut to a sleeveless shift style with a full skirt and nipped-in waist. The top and bottom of the skirt are smothered in row after row of ruffled white lace. At the waist, there is a sheer white chiffon belt detailed along the edges with looping stitching that creates a scallop trim, it is tied in a floppy bow to complete the look. This dress is fully lined in high-quality acetate and fastens at the back of the neck with a hidden tonal zip and hook-and-eye clasp.
Made in England, this dress is in excellent vintage condition and we have expertly cleaned back to true white. There are no composition or size labels and the fabric has no stretch. A good fit for around a UK 8-10 or US 4-6 with a smaller waist. A great choice for a bride; I'm pretty sure this would have retailed as a wedding dress and Jean Varon had a bridal concession in Harrods during this period. John Bates, the designer, 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. Along with Ossie Clark, Gina Fratini and Bill Gibb, John Bates pioneered a romantic and dramatic mood in fashion in the early 1970s.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 34 in. (86 cm)
WAIST - 28 in. (71 cm)
HIP - 38 in. (97 cm)
LENGTH - 38 in. (97 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.
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