ARCHIVE - 1970s Mexican Hand Embroidered Huipil Style Sun Dress

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This wonderful 1970s black cotton sundress with colourful hand embroidery is a beautiful example of the Mexicana style popular in the 60s and 70s and is an American label emulating the traditional Mexican Huipil dress to perfection. The thick cotton fabric is skillfully embroidered with woolen thread in an assortment of vibrant pinks, blues, greens and reds to depict exotic birds and flowers. In keeping with traditional pieces, the embroidery is focused mainly on the bodice and a decorative panel on the centre of the full ankle length skirt, with colourful hand stitched ribbon work trim on the horizontal neckline, waistband and pin tucked hem. Elasticated shirring on the reverse of the bodice draws the fabric snugly in at the waist to create a fitted look and allows the dress to be slipped easily over the head. The thin straps are tied over the shoulders and add to the gamine, youthful aesthetic of the piece. In excellent vintage condition, this charming dress is perfect for summertime and would be a delight to accessorise. Would best suit a US size 0-1, UK 6 due to petite bust measurement, although waist and hip measurements will accommodate all sizes. MEASUREMENTS: BUST - 26.5 in. (67.3 cm) - no stretch : 31.5 in. (80cm) - fully stretched WAIST - 39 in. (73.2 cm) HIP - 58.5 in. (148.6 cm) LENGTH - 37.5 in. (95.3 cm) - from top centre of bodice to hem as straps are adjustable to fit

F.A.Q.

Where can I find more information about this item?

We are more than happy to answer any questions you may have about any item on our site. Please get in touch at shop@circavintage.com or on +44 (0)20 7365053.

Will you set anything aside for me for my appointment?

We are happy to find anything you may be interested in from our website. We have an extensive offline collection. It is helpful if you can let us know your size, style, favourite colour to wear and perhaps your budget in advance of your appointment.

Do I need to bring anything to my appointment?

Clients may wish to bring modern shapewear. You may also wish to bring favourite footwear. We often find a classic pair of nude shoes work well when trying-on, or gold and silver. We have a huge variety of slip dresses and petticoats to complete your look. Many of which are also for sale.

Do you have a price range at the showroom?

Many of our lower priced pieces, under £250, are not available to buy online. Dresses usually start at £150 and go up to £30,000 for the very best archival couture. Our bridalwear price points range from £1,000 to £20,000.

Can I bring anyone with me to my appointment?

Yes but please do let us know the size of your party in advance.

Where can I have my circa garment altered?

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.

Does Circa have an after-care service?

We will advise you on the best way to clean and preserve your vintage purchases 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.

Where's the Circa 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 at the Circa showroom?

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 to the Circa showroom 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 does Circa accept?

Cash, credit/debit card, bank transfer, contactless, Paypal

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.