ARCHIVE - 1950s Worth Demi Couture Black Raffia Cocktail Dress With Silk Belt Detail
This divine 1950s black raffia and silk cocktail dress is from the house of Worth and is a magnificent piece of demi-couture in impeccable vintage condition. Beautifully constructed, it is comprised of soft grey silk reinforced with a sheer layer of black net and overlain with black raffia lace. The boat neck line and wide shoulder straps feature scalloped edges as does the hem, and princess seams structure the bodice with a concealed zip fastening at the centre reverse. There is a black silk belt incorporated into the waistband with stylish bow embellishments on either side, which fastens with hook eye closures at the back. The interior of the dress is silk lined and the finishing on the seams and neckline is of exceptional quality. This rare and incredible piece would best suit a US size 4-6, UK 8-10.
MEASUREMENTS:
BUST - 34 in. (86.36 cm)
WAIST - 27 in. (68.58 cm)
HIP - 36 in. (91.44 cm)
LENGTH - 37.5 in. (95.25 cm)
NOTES ON DESIGNER : The House of Worth founded by Charles Fredrick Worth in 1858 is considered by many to be one of the foremost fashion houses of the 19th and early 20th centuries . Often extolled as the father of haute couture, fashion historian George Walden has said: "Charles Frederick Worth dictated fashion in France a century and a half before Galliano". He was the first to use live models to showcase his garments and the first to sew branded labels into his clothing. He is also widely recognised as the father of Haute Couture.
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