1960s Blanes Floral Cotton Dress with Belt Design
Blanes was a well regarded London ready to wear house that was in operation from the 1940s to the late 1960s. The clothes were very well made and retailed in some of the top department stores of the day. This vivacious gown was designed in the late 1950s or early 1960s. Crafted from polished cotton, it is the print and the attention-to-detail of the tailoring that really make this piece stand out and make this label much sought-after in the vintage world. The print is made up of bright yellow and orange hued flowers set against an abstract background splashed with sketchy florals in white, brown and terracotta. Cut to a flattering boat-neck shape, it has elegant three-quarter length sleeves and a full, softly pleated skirt. The front of the nipped-in waist features a stunning wide belt in coordinating floral cotton with a large rectangular fabric-covered buckle. The gown is secured at the back with a hidden white zip and hook-and-eye clasp. The hem at the neckline and waistband of this feature pretty piping in the same cloth. The skirt is lined with stiff cotton which adds volume.
Presented in truly excellent vintage condition; this dress has no flaws of any note and looks barely worn. It is made from pure cotton. The size label states UK 16 but vintage sizes run small, and we suggest the modern equivalent is a generous 10-12 or US 6-8.
MEASUREMENTS:
BUST: 38 in. (97 cm)
WAIST: 29 in. (74 cm)
HIP: 50 in. (127 cm)
LENGTH: 44 in. (112 cm)
SLEEVE: 19 in. (48 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