ARCHIVE: 1940s Black Full Length dress with Gold Beading
This elegant 1940s black silk crepe full length evening dress is unlabelled and its origin is unknown, however it is clearly of excellent quality and beautifully made. The dress is a simple shift cut with a slightly drop waistline, batwing sleeves tapered at the wrist and a full floor sweeping skirt. The skirt has a small slit from the hem at the centre and a large asymmetrical ruffle descending from the left hip to the centre front of the dress. There is an inward-facing pleat which runs the length of the skirt at the reverse, to create drama and movement. The round neckline is embellished with an exquisite gold beaded wheat sheaf design which fans out in a sunburst above the bust and features again on the cuffs. There is a zip fastening to the left of the dress and a hook eye closure to secure the neck at the reverse. Could be drawn in at the waist with a belt if desired. Would best suit a US size 87-10, UK size 12-14.
MEASUREMENTS:
LENGTH -157.4cms / 62"
BUST - 97.7cms / 38.5"
WAIST -77.4cms / 30.5"
HIP - 102.8cms / 40.5"
SLEEVE LENGTH -62.2cms / 24.5"
ACROSS BACK - 40.6cms / 16"
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