1970s Oscar De La Renta Navy Floral Organza and Gold Lurex Maxi Dress
This incredible lame maxi dress was designed by Oscar de la Renta circa 1968-1971. We have added a photo of a very similar Oscar de la Renta gown taken by David Bailey for the September 1971 issue of Vogue. By 1972, the fashion world had moved on from this maximalist take on bohemia and colour-block prints started to emerge again.
The fabric of this gown is stunning; rich navy-blue silk organza is detailed with luscious florals in burnt orange, candy pink, yellow and emerald green, alongside swirling botanical forms woven from shimmering gold lurex thread. The silhouette is of its era yet also classic, with a nipped-in waist and full skirt, softly pleated at the point it hits the waistband. The sleeves are sheer and full-length. The collar is voluminous and ruffled and plays to the extravagant femininity the brand is known for today. This dress is fully lined in navy-blue satin. It fastens at the back of the neck with a hidden tonal zip, snap closures and hook-and-eye clasp.
With the original “Oscar De La Renta boutique” label this stunning gown is a show-stopping addition to any event wardrobe and is in excellent vintage condition. We did notice a small hole 3-4 mm diameter on the right side of the dress; we nearly didn't spot it as it gets lost in the folds of the dress and busy print. This is not noticeable at all when worn. The fabric has no stretch nor size and composition label, so please check our measurements below. We suggest a best fit for sizes UK 8-10 or US 4-6 with plenty of room in the hip.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 35 in. (89 cm)
WAIST - 28 in. (71 cm)
HIP - 42 in. (107 cm)
LENGTH - 52 in. (132 cm)
Pickup available at CIRCA VINTAGE
Usually ready in 24 hours
F.A.Q.
Where can I find more information about this item?
We are more than happy to answer any questions you may have about any item on our site. Please get in touch at shop@circavintage.com or on +44 (0)20 7365053.
Will you set anything aside for me for my appointment?
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 to my appointment?
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 at the showroom?
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 to my appointment?
Yes but please do let us know the size of your party in advance.
Where can I have my circa garment altered?
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.
Does Circa 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 Circa 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 at the Circa showroom?
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 to the Circa showroom 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 does Circa accept?
Cash, credit/debit card, bank transfer, contactless, Paypal
What is archival fashion?
Archival fashion refers to historically significant designer garments preserved for their cultural, aesthetic, or technical importance. At Circa, archival fashion includes couture archive pieces, runway garments, early designer work, and museum-quality vintage that document the evolution of fashion history.
How is archival fashion different from vintage?
While vintage typically describes clothing over 20 years old, archival vintage is selected for its rarity, provenance, and relevance to a designer’s archive or fashion history. Circa specialises in archival pieces rather than general vintage.