1970s Ted Lapidus Silk Shirt Dress
A stylish 1970s daywear piece by revered designer Ted Lapidus who began his long fashion career at the house of Dior before branching out on his own in 1951. He is known for his unisex style of dressing and was worn by leading French stars of the day including Brigitte Bardot and Francoise Hardy.
This is a boutique piece and is classic and understated French chic at its best. The style of the dress is almost tunic-like and could easily be worn as a top over jeans or pants. The high neck collar opens out like a shirt and although not a true shirtwaister design down to the waist, there is a pearlescent button fastening along with two breast pockets. The cuffed sleeves are bracelet length. The waist is elasticated and the skirt portion is a straight cut finish just above the knee. The dress retains its belt and we have styled it drawn in at the waist. The colours are muted pastels in beige, pink, cream and pale yellow. The print reminds us of a Picasso drawing that has been painted with watercolours - most serene and unusual.
This is an exceptionally versatile and easy to wear tunic dress of the highest quality. Perfect for those Zoom meetings as you could wear something comfy on the bottom! The condition is really excellent and the silk retains its lustre. There are no marks or tears. The dress is labelled a French size 36 and this equates to sizes UK 8, US 4.
MEASUREMENTS:
BUST - 38.6 in. (98 cm)
WAIST - 34.4 in. (87.4 cm)
HIP - 47 in. (119.4 cm)
LENGTH - 36 in. (91.4 cm)
SHOULDERS - 15.5 in. (39.4 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