ARCHIVE - 1970s Anna Cat Medieval Silk Organza Peach Juliet Sleeved Dress

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This late 1960s dress by Annacat is really something special and the best we've ever seen from the British design duo Janet Lyle and Maggie Keswick. It is a fairy-tale concoction of cream Georgette overlaid on a peach underdress. It is magnificent for its sheer number of design features and the level of care with which it has been made. It features a wide scoop neck with gathered ruffle frill; the sleeves are an exaggerated trumpet sleeve, close fitting for the first section of the arm but then widening into an almost three-quarter length flared open section at the cuffs. Each of the arms has an organza tie that can be used to style the sleeve element. The dress has a low waist point that is also edged in ruffle trim. We lost count of the number of bespoke fabric covered buttons this dress contains running down the front for the entire length of the dress. There is a lavish amount of fabric in the flared full-length skirt and it has a very considerable train. The dress is in extraordinary antique condition and has clearly only been worn once for the big day. It would make a very special wedding dress for a modern bride and is a best fit for around a size UK 8 on top, and 10 on bottom or smaller.


Annacat, was a boutique that opened in 1965 near South Kensington and was known as the Biba of Brompton Road. Due to the founders' connections as London socialites, they were championed by Diana Vreeland Of British Vogue. Patrick Lichfield, the Queen's cousin, had invested in the shop and sold his own line of designer menswear there. They were also amongst the first to retail Laura Ashley designs prior to the brand moving to their own retail premises. By 1970 the label was sold and the shop closed. Although a fleeting moment in fashion history, the label is highly prized for its contribution to London fashion during the 'swinging sixties'.

MEASUREMENTS
Bust - 33 in. (83.8 cm)
Waist - 29 in. (73.7 cm)
Hip - 42 in. (106.7 cm)
Min. Length - 61 in. (154.9 cm) Max. Length - 87 in. (221 cm)
Shoulders - 16 in. (40.6 cm)

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