1970s Yuki Gnyuki Torimaru Black Silk Batwing Top and Maxi Skirt Suit
This dramatic draped three-piece silk ensemble by Yuki is a striking example of designer Gnyuki Torimaru's trademark combination of structure and fluidity in a garment. Trained at the London College of Fashion during the 1960s, Torimaru created his label in 1972 to specialise in draped jersey and monastic styles. Part of the label's much rarer and expensive main line, this remains true to his vision. This ensemble is composed of a maxi-skirt, sleeveless top and a jacket.
The skirt is generously cut from silk and cascades to the floor. The waistband is cut in a basque style and is high-waisted. It fastens on the left hip with a hidden tonal zip and hook-and-eye clasp. The skirt is unlined.
The fluid, elegant top is sleeveless and cut to a cropped length. It has a rounded neckline from which the fabric falls in soft pleats to the drawstring bottom. Paired with the skirt, it creates a fluid, playful look and it too is unlined. The swirling, gently pleated jacket has a high-neck with a keyhole cut out which fastens with two fabric-covered buttons at the front of the neck. It has an exaggerated batwing cut which gives way to button cuffs. The shoulders and neckline are cut from stiffer fabric which means the jacket holds its shape at the top.
All three pieces are in excellent vintage condition with no faults to mention. The fabric has no stretch and there are no size or composition labels. Our model's sizes are: Bust: 37” (94cm), Waist 31” (80cm), Hips: 45” (114cm) and 5' 10.5" (180cm) and she's a size UK 12, US 8. We believe this would best fit a size UK 10 or US 6 on account of the smaller waist.
MEASUREMENTS BATWING TOP
SHOULDERS - 17 in. (43 cm)
LENGTH - 25.5 in. (65 cm)
MEASUREMENTS TOP
LENGTH - 15 in. (38 cm)
MEASUREMENTS SKIRT
WAIST - 28 in. (71 cm)
HIP - 68 in. (173 cm)
LENGTH - 44 in. (112 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