ARCHIVE - 1950s Horrockses Cotton Abstract Print Dress

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This original 1950s vintage Horrockses dress is sheer class and in its day, top of the range. The company, who had been producing their own cotton fabrics since the late 18th century, were renowned for some of the best quality post war garments in the UK during the 1950s and 1960s. They were famously worn by Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Margaret and the Duchess of Kent throughout the period. This dress has one of the earliest labels from Horrockses. The design has an unusual painterly abstract all-over print in yellow and brown tones, teal and orange against a white background. The bodice is boned and shaped with a gathered waistband on the skirt and an additional asymmetric peplum. A wide fabric bow sits up on the left hip and you can see the underside in a complimentary teal colour, the same that features in the print. The dress fastens to the rear with the original metal concealed zip. This piece showcases wonderful layers with the top skirt lined in a stiff cotton and furthermore there is an integral tulle gathered petticoat that is attached to give the skirt it's wonderful shaping.

This is quite simply one of the best Horrockses we've owned for some time because of the unusual print and the additional quality details present in the design. It is labelled a vintage 14 but this is better suited in modern sizing to fit no bigger than a UK 8-10 /US 4-6. It is in superb original vintage condition with no faults of any note; definitely one for the connoisseur or collector.

MEASUREMENTS:
Bust - 34 in (86.4 cm)
Waist - 26 in (66 cm)
Hip - FREE
Length - 41.5 in (105.4 cm)
Shoulders - 15 in (38.1 cm)

Pickup currently unavailable at CIRCA VINTAGE

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