ARCHIVE - 1970s Gina Fratini Blue & White Lace and Cotton Dress and Gilet Set
The waistcoat is separate to the dress and made of a diamond quilted baby blue linen. In each of the diamonds is an embroidered 5 petal flower. The jacket is entirely lace edged in what appears to be a handmade lace. Gina Fratini did repurpose antique fabrics and trim in some of her garments and it is lovely to see repurposing of beautiful antique lace from a much earlier era. The jacket ties to the front and sides with two long ties also embroidered with flowers. The dress fastens to the rear and the cotton underdress has a long concealed back zip. The muslin layers open and fasten at the top of the high collar with a hook and eye. The dress of course can be worn on its own but to complete the look, the waistcoat exemplifies the romantic fashion of the era and Gina Fratini was the undisputed queen of this style. Both pieces are labelled Gina Fratini, Made in England. Condition wise this piece is absolutely perfect, there are no faults of any note and this would make a fantastic wedding dress. This would be a best fit for UK 8-10, US 4-6 but could be made larger with work to the underdress as the muslin layers are trapeze shaped.
NOTES ON DESIGNER:
Gina Fratini was a British designer renowned during the 1970s and early 1980s for her romantic gowns which were of elaborate construction. She was a favourite of Princess Diana who wore her designs on several state occasions. Elizabeth Taylor famously chose a medieval style Gina Fratini gown for her second marriage to Richard Burton.
MEASUREMENTS:
DRESS:
BUST - 31 in. (78.7 cm)
WAIST - 28 in. (71.1 cm)
HIP - 34 in. (86.4 cm)
LENGTH - 57 in. (144.8 cm)
SHOULDERS - 13 in. (33 cm)
GILET:
BUST - 32 in. (81.3 cm)
WAIST - 32 in. (81.3 cm)
LENGTH - 20 in. (50.8 cm)
SHOULDERS - 15 in. (38.1 cm)
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.
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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.
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We will advise you on the best way to clean and preserve your vintage pieces and can also recommend trusted local dry cleaners.
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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.
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