ARCHIVE - 1950s Christian Dior London Modele Original Silk Dress

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This is quite simply one of the best original Christian Dior London dresses we've had in for a very long time. It is in absolutely extraordinary vintage condition with a repeat paisley pattern against a French blue background and olive green, turquoise, warm ochre and pink tones. It is made from the best quality heavier weight silk, with a diagonal twill weave. The dress is elaborately constructed and was almost certainly a demi-couture order from the House. The dress has a wide portrait collar with a high cut modesty panel, cap sleeves and a darted waist. The skirt has neat box pleating and fastens to the back with the original concealed metal zip. The silk outer layer is lined in a navy organza. The magic starts as always with Dior dresses inside the dress with just as much attention to detail applied to a concealed inner dress with its own zip that is made from a quality navy acetate. There are also two stiffened tulle petticoats also in a coordinating blue.

There are absolutely no faults whatsoever with this dress and it displays beautifully. The colour is exceptionally fresh and there is no wear to the fabric. There is no colour fading or holes. The lining is absolutely excellent and the zips work. If we're being exceptionally picky, the tulle has numerous small breaks but obviously these can't be seen when worn and they are fully functioning in terms of the fullness that they give to the dress. The dress was purchased with an original 1950s French blue suede wide band leather belt. This presents reasonably well from the front. It is not labelled or if it was labelled this has faded to the point of obscurity. It may even be not original but it goes well with the dress and is included in the sale. Of note, there are no belt loops and the dress presents beautifully without a belt.

We suggest this will fit up to a UK 10-12 or size US 6-8.

MEASUREMENTS:
BUST - 37 in. (94 cm)
WAIST - 28 in. (71.1 cm)
HIP - 36 in. (91.4 cm)
LENGTH - 46 in. (116.9 cm)
SHOULDERS - 18 in. (45.7 cm)

BELT MIN. LENGTH - 28 in. (71.1 cm)
BELT MAX. LENGTH - 30 in. (76.2 cm)

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