1 5

ARCHIVE: 1950s Horrockses Pastel Floral Print Dress

£0.00 Sold out
An original 1950s dress from legendary British brand Horrockses which was a favourite of Queen Elizabeth and Princess Margaret. Featuring a quality cotton watercolour floral print in pastel shades of brown, apricot, and sunshine yellow. There is a criss-cross and ruched bodice design and an asymmetric waistline with a pencil skirt finishing below the knee. At the back, the criss-cross design arrives at the shoulders and then converts to a thin strap. There is a very unusual train design that we've not seen on a Horrockses before, in an almost sari style, with one edge of the material draped from the bodice line and then is attached at the waistband. The unattached edge wraps around the asymmetric line of the dress but does not reach the front. Underneath this fold of material is the original hidden metal zip. Attached at the top of this train is a tied bow to consolidate the look. Inside, the dress has a separate fitted cotton bodice and skirt lining in white cotton.

This is one of the most unusual Horrockses dresses we've ever encountered and it is a really great design piece. This look would go effortlessly from formal day wear to evening attire – it really is something special and would even make a fantastic bridal dress. Labelled with the oldest style of Horrockses label and also a small label attached to the zip that reads, ‘Made in England’ and Size 14. This is probably better suited to around a UK 10 or US 6 in modern sizing. In fabulous vintage condition - no issues.

MEASUREMENTS
Bust - 36 in. (91.4 cm)
Waist - 28 in. (71.1 cm)
Hip - 36 in. (91.4 cm)
Length - 43 in. (109.2 cm)
Shoulders - FREE

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