1970s Jean Varon Blue and White Lace Ruffle Maxi-Dress
This very early 1970s lace maxi dress was made by British label Jean Varon and is a beautiful example of the designer's penchant for romantic detailing, synonymous with his work during this era. The dress is comprised of manufactured, white floral all-over lace and the centre of each flower is finished in pale-blue. The sleeves are long and cut to a double, ruffled angel-sleeve style that flares out from the elbow. The neckline is rounded and trimmed with white scalloped lace. This same pretty trim finishes the sleeves and the ruffled flounce hem of the ankle-length skirt. This dress is lined with a white satin slip which is double-lined at the bust to ensure the wearer’s modesty. The sleeves and neckline are sheer. The dress and slip fasten at the back with hidden tonal zips and hook-and-eye clasps.
There are no composition or size labels and the fabric has no stretch. This would be a good fit for up to UK size 8, US size 4 on account of the smaller bust measurement. There is plenty of room elsewhere. In excellent vintage condition with no issues and would make a great choice for a bride; I'm pretty sure this would have retailed as a wedding dress and Jean Varon had a bridal concession in Harrods during this period. John Bates, the designer, chose the name Jean Varon in order to appear to be French and also because it meant he was the only designer under the letter 'V' in the rag trade book. Along with Ossie Clark, Gina Fratini and Bill Gibb, John Bates pioneered a romantic and dramatic mood in fashion in the early 1970s. Our model's sizes are: Bust: 31" (80cm), Waist: 25" (64cm), Hips: 34" (87cm) and Height: 5' 4" (164cm) and she's a size UK 6, US 2. This dress was good fit on her with some room on the waist and hips.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 32 in. (81 cm)
WAIST - 32 in. (81 cm)
HIP - 42 in. (107 cm)
LENGTH - 52.5 in. (133 cm)
Pickup available at CIRCA VINTAGE
Usually ready in 24 hours
F.A.Q.
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What is archival fashion?
Archival fashion refers to historically significant designer garments preserved for their cultural, aesthetic, or technical importance. At Circa, archival fashion includes couture archive pieces, runway garments, early designer work, and museum-quality vintage that document the evolution of fashion history.
How is archival fashion different from vintage?
While vintage typically describes clothing over 20 years old, archival vintage is selected for its rarity, provenance, and relevance to a designer’s archive or fashion history. Circa specialises in archival pieces rather than general vintage.