1960s Lauretta Alta Moda Blue and Purple Sequinned Dress
This mesmerising sequinned dress was designed in the late 1960s by Lauretta. We found a photo of Italian singer Milva (Maria Ilva Biolcati) in 1968 wearing what appears to be an identical dress. Made in Italy using alta moda (haute couture) craftsmanship, it is exquisitely handmade. Cut to a mod-silhouette and falling to below the knee, it has a loose, swinging body which is weighted by the elaborate sequin-work. The long sleeves are slightly cropped and are cuffed with a contrasting band of sequins, as is the bottom hem. Up close, the detail of the sequins is beautiful and the assortment of blues, turquoise, purples and violets create a swirling, psychedelic pattern. This dress is fully lined in violet satin. It fastens at the back with a concealed zip. The original label reads “Lauretta Venezia”.
Haute Couture clothing which is handmade in Italy by members of the Camera Nazionale della Moda is known as Alta Moda. Very few Italian couturiers were well known outside of Italy during this time period with the exception of Valentino Garavani, perhaps the most famous of them all. Circa treasures garments such as these in our collection as they represent an important part of Italian fashion heritage.
The dress is in excellent vintage condition with only very, very minor sequin loss noted on close inspection - no other issues apparent. Due to its age it has no size or composition labels so please check our measurements below as the fabric has no stretch. We estimate a good fit for sizes up to a UK 10 or US 6.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 36 in. (91 cm)
WAIST - 37 in. (94 cm)
HIP - 41 in. (104 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. 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