1970s Haute Couture Navy Silk Slip Dress and Beaded Jacket
Designed in the early 1970s, this haute couture ensemble, handmade in France, consists of an elegant slip dress and stunning beaded long jacket. It is reminiscent of elegant 1920s evening attire which coincided with the Hollywood release of the Great Gatsby starring Robert Redford and Mia Farrow.
The slip dress is made of fine navy silk with narrow spaghetti straps made from ribbon and a sensuous, V-shaped bust. It is fully lined and falls in a column shape to the mid-calf. It is fastened by a hidden tonal zip and hook-and-eye clasp under the left arm. The chiffon silk cover-up is sheer and fastens in a wrap style across the front with a snap closure and two hook-and-eye clasps. It falls to the same length as the slip. The beadwork on this piece is exquisite; rows of iridescent bugle beads and glossy navy embroidery frame the neckline and, running along the bottom half of the jacket, there is a foot of beads and tonal embroidery. Here, embroidered navy petals surround a central blue bead, whilst hexagonal stitching and beadwork encircle these floral shapes. This beautiful detailing is echoed at each cuff.
This adaptable, two-piece ensemble is in excellent vintage condition with no flaws to the silk or beadwork. No labels remain in the dress although exquisitely of high-end couture standards. Our model (5ft 11in / 180cm) is a UK 8-10 or US 4-6 and this fits her well with room to spare. The fabric has no stretch and we estimate it will work on sizes up to a UK 12 or US 8.
MEASUREMENTS DRESS
BUST - 42 in. (107 cm)
WAIST - 44 in. (112 cm)
HIP - 54 in. (137 cm)
LENGTH - 44.5 in. (113 cm)
MEASUREMENTS JACKET
BUST - 46 in. (117 cm)
WAIST - 40 in. (102 cm)
HIP - 52 in. (132 cm)
LENGTH - 45 in. (114 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 - 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