1960s Ceil Chapman Purple and Lilac Floral Silk Dress
Ceil Chapman was a female American fashion designer working and designing in NYC from the 1940s to the 1960s. She was revered as a creator of super glamorous cocktail and party dresses and celebrity clients flocked to her for her gowns, including Marylin Monroe who declared Ceil Chapman her favourite designer.
This vibrant late 1950s, early 1960s dress is crafted from purple and lilac silk, and embroidered all over with white florals detailed with caramel and gold metallic thread. With its elaborate, draped tailoring, it is flatteringly cut with a cinched waist silhouette with a graceful square neckline. It has short-sleeves and falls to just below the knee. This pretty dress is fully lined in nude silk and fastens at the back with a hidden zip. A great choice for an important social event and works equally well as day or evening wear.
Made in America with the ILGWU union label used from 1955 to 1963. Absolutely superb vintage condition with no flaws of any note and looks barely worn. Due to its age, this piece doesn't have a composition or size label so please check our measurements below closely. The fabric has no stretch to it. Our model is a UK 6-8 and 5ft 4in. (163cm), this dress was roomy on her bust but otherwise fit her well and we recommend for up to sizes UK 8 or US 4.
MEASUREMENTS:
BUST: 30 in. (76 cm)
WAIST: 27 in. (69 cm)
HIP: 36 in. (91 cm)
LENGTH: 41 in. (104 cm)
Pickup available at CIRCA VINTAGE
Usually ready in 24 hours
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