1920s Blue and Russet Silk Crepe Day Dress
This elegant and original vintage 1920s day dress is cut from a beautifully made navy blue silk crepe and trimmed with vibrant russet red. Designed to look like a co-ordinated two-piece ensemble, the dress is couture made with mostly hand-sewn techniques. It presents many signature details of the era’s high-end clothing design; the sunray pleating across the bust front and rear of the top, the pretty trim and bow at the round neckline and the sash belt around the waist. The russet crepe detailing that features around the neckline and cuffs also sits on the reverse of the sash so that it can be seen as the sash cascades from the left hip. The pleated skirt kicks out as the wearer walks, adding a sporty feel to this highly wearable resort piece that would have been 'de riguour' for summer retreats in Biarritz and the Hamptons. Inside the top section is a rare surviving under-top crafted from white silk, with the navy and red short sleeves attached. This fastens across the bust with multiple hook-and-eye clasps. The pleated top layer sits over this under piece, fastening with snap closures at the left shoulder, and the navy and red short sleeves come out from the arm holes.
A very fine example of mid 1920s daywear, the condition is beyond anything that could reasonably be expected for a dress of its age. She displays beautifully and is worthy of collection for the design and level of preservation. The navy and russet crepes are superb with no fade, thinning or holes. The white mulberry silk interior is pretty good with just a small area on the left shoulder pulling away from the seam and the odd small split. It's frankly a miracle that the silk hasn't disintegrated but it is tissue thin. Whilst the dress could be worn with care as is, you might want to reinforce the underbodice (unseen) or remake it to preserve the dress further as the white silk will split further. You could also potentially add the sleeves to the body of the dress in due course and do away with the under-top. In keeping with the era, the design is a looser fit and if this is to be worn, we recommend no bigger than a UK size 8 or US 4.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 42 in. (107 cm)
WAIST - 31 in. (79 cm)
HIP - 54 in. (137 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 - 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