1950s French Haute Couture Cream Lace Bustier Dress
This French haute couture 1950s cream lace bustier dress hugs the female silhouette to perfection. The lace is incredibly intricate and has a lovely thickness to it - a testament to its quality. The bust area features a sweetheart neckline and shoulder straps made from the same lace material, with boning to the front offering shape and support. A zip and flattering slit can be found on the middle back of the dress. It isn’t lined and the original owner probably had bespoke, or couture undergarments made for the dress. They aren’t necessary and she can be comfortably worn as is.
In excellent vintage condition, no issues noted with the lace and she is strong and wearable. A petite size, the dress would best fit a UK size 4-6 or US 0. Our model is a UK 6-8 and 5ft 4in. (163cm) and this dress was a snug fit around the waist but very roomy on the bust, we taped the bust down.
Unlabelled but very reminiscent of Herbert Givenchy's work during this era and immortalized by Aubrey Hepburn who he dressed very frequently. Her 1954 Academy Awards dress where she won for best actress for her role in Roman Holiday is regularly voted the greatest of all time.
MEASUREMENTS:
BUST - 29 in. (74 cm)
WAIST - 24 in. (61 cm)
HIP - 34 in. (86 cm)
LENGTH - 39 in. (99 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 - 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