1960s Sarmi of New York Silk Chiffon and Beaded Dress
A stunning 1960s couture made pleated silk chiffon ballerina style cocktail dress by Sarmi of New York. This utterly magical dress is set off beautifully with an empire line bust in crystal, bugle beads and diamante beadwork. The pleating of the chiffon is very delicate and skilled work giving the dress an extremely elegant line. It would make an incredible wedding dress or a perfect party dress you could dance in. The silk chiffon is a blend of cream and pale powder pink while the empire line segment is a darker, more shell pink. The embellishment is in whites and pinks though the pink stones are set onto dark metal clawback settings making them stand out against the paler hues. The neckline is Grecian in style with a high draped look that leads down the back via pleated straps.
The dress is in very good vintage condition. Some beads are missing though these are not noticeable when worn. The dress fastens at the back with a concealed zip, hook and eyes as well as an overlay layer of poppers to ensure the back of the dress is supremely neat. The label reads Sarmi New York. The dress has very petite measurements and was photographed flat as it could not be done up on a mannequin. In our estimation, a best fit for a UK 4 or US 0.
MEASUREMENTS
Bust - 30 in. (76.2 cm)
Waist - 23 in. (58.4 cm)
Hip - 30 in. (76.2 cm)
Length - 52.5 in. (133.3 cm)
Shoulders - FREE
SARMI
Fernando Sarmi was an Italian fashion designer whose career started with costume design in Italy. He left Italy in 1951 to work in New York, becoming head designer for Elizabeth Arden. He went on to open his own high quality ready-to-wear salon in New York under the label Sarmi. In 1960, he won a Coty Award and went on to gain a reputation as a top designer attracting clients who were celebrities, New York socialites and foreign dignitaries. His talents for opulent evening looks and use of extravagant fabrics such as swansdown made his designs stand out.He produced both haute couture and ready-to-wear clothing with intricate embroideries, vivid colors, and racy hemlines as well as hand-silkscreened silks and the first-ever tie-dyed silk chiffons.
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