1930s Haute Couture Black Liquid Satin Maxi Dress with Open Sleeves
A beautiful and original 1930s French couture dress in outstanding wearable condition. Of complex construction, the body is tailored from inky black liquid satin and has a panelled construction with pleating across the shoulder. The top has long-sleeves with a bell cut that are slit on the underside - from wrist to armpit - to allow flashes of skin to peek through. The neckline has a generously draped, flattering cowl neck. It meets the skirt with a zig-zag hem - a hallmark of many of this era’s gowns. The waistband is also detailed with a floppy bow that attaches at the front with a hidden tonal hook-and-eye. The skirt is full and panelled at the back, where it has a slightly lowered back hem and provides flowing movement as the wearer walks. At the top of the back there is a large keyhole cut out and the dress fastens above it with a fabric-covered button - it is unlined.
In excellent antique condition - as good as it gets for a dress of this age. On close inspection we noted a small area of very, very light grazing at the top of the left shoulder which would be very difficult to detect when worn. The dress has no labels but was made in France with couture construction techniques. It's possible that this dress would look equally good worn the other way round and it's a great size to boot - will easily accommodate up to a UK 16 or US 12.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 44 in. (112 cm)
WAIST - 38 in. (97 cm)
HIP - 56 in. (142 cm)
LENGTH - 61 in. (155 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