1970s Caroline Charles Cotton Striped Blouse and Skirt Ensemble

£275.00
This is a late 1970s or early 1980s ensemble by Caroline Charles, a well-known designer on the London circuit who has made beautiful formal wear and fine quality day clothes since the 1960s. This cotton suit is made up of a triple tiered skirt, belt and blouse and reminds of the 'peasant chic' look that Yves Saint Laurent was designing in the late 70s as part of his Ballet Russes collection. The blouse is high-necked with neat puff shoulders and tapered, gathered cuffs. The blouse is not lined whilst the skirt is fully lined in black cotton. The original wide fabric belt is retained, and we would suggest the blouse could be tucked into the skirt but also be fastened over the top and cinched in with the fabric belt.

In very good vintage condition overall; the blouse appears to have been worn more than the skirt, which together with the belt, are in excellent condition. The skirt and blouse are labelled Caroline Charles and marked UK size 10. This is best suited in modern sizing to UK size 6-8, US size 2-4 on account of the waist measurements for the skirt, although the top could be worn by a size bigger.

Notes on Designer:

Caroline Charles began her design career after a couture appenticeship and a stint at Mary Quant. She was a founding designer at London Fashion Week and during the swinging 60s, her collections were worn by Lulu, Marianne Faithful and Cilla Black, as well as suits she made for Mick Jagger and Ringo Starr. She was one of Princess Diana's go-to designers.

MEASUREMENTS:
Top
Bust - 36 in (91.4 cm)
Waist - 35 in (88.9 cm)
Hip - 39 in (99 cm)
Length - 23 in (58.4 cm)
Shoulders - 15 in (38.1 cm)

SKIRT
Waist - 24in (61 cm)
Hip - 46 in (116.8 cm)
Length - 34 in (86.4 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