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ARCHIVE - 1950s Kittiwake Rose Print Cotton Smocked Swimsuit

£0.00 Sold out
Original late 1950s or very early 1960s smocked one-piece swimsuit made from cotton in an azure blue with a stylised trellis rose and rose stem print. The swimsuit has wide straps and a square neckline with a beautifully shaped and paneled torso. This is the most desirable swimsuit style of the era whereby the hip line is completely covered. The pants, which are separate and hidden at the front by the overlapping torso panel, share the same back where is entirely smock elasticated with a medium-low line. The straps fasten to the rear with fabric hoops that the straps pass through so that you can, if desired, get a criss-cross design at the back. The bust area is shaped and is additionally double lined for modesty.

In absolutely fabulous vintage condition, the swimsuit appears almost unworn. The colours are really crisp and bright. The smocking is excellent and there are no stains or marks. The swimsuit is labelled Kittywake and Made in England. Size is a XXS or UK size 4-6, US 0.

MEASUREMENTS
Bust - 29 in. (73.7 cm)
Waist - 26 in. (66 cm)
Hip - 30 in. (76.2 cm)
Length - 30 in. (76.2 cm)
Shoulders - N/A

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