1970s Jean Varon Rainbow Maxi-Dress with Angel-Sleeves
During the 1960s and beyond, English fashion designer John Bates designed visionary modernist dresses under the name Jean Varon. This flamboyant 1970s maxi-dress, with its floor-sweeping construction and theatrical sleeves, is an attention-grabbing choice for any event. It has an empire-line silhouette. A red grosgrain ribbon encircles the waist below the bust and can be tied in a bow at the front. Below this, the fabric of the skirt falls in pleats. The fabric is mesmerising; a semi-sheer crepe printed with a psychedelic print of gradient polka-dots in ombré rainbow hues set against a black background. The dress is cut with a low-V neckline at the front, a sensuous detail that counterbalances the full-length skirt. The sleeves are a stand-out feature. Tailored from the same sheer rainbow cloth, they have a dramatic waterfall angel-sleeve construction that falls to nearly the same length as the skirt. The body of the dress is lined with a pale pink satin. It fastens at the front with a hidden black zip.
This collectable piece is in excellent vintage condition with no flaws of any note. Made in England, it is tagged a vintage size UK 14, but vintage sizes vary so please check our measurements below as the fabric has no stretch. Lots of flexibility below the empire line bust and will fit a range of sizes up to a UK 10 or US 6.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 34 in. (86 cm)
WAIST - 30 in. (76 cm)
HIP - 80 in. (203 cm)
LENGTH - 56 in. (142 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