1970s Ossie Clark with Celia Birtwell Print Blue Rayon Floral Shirt
This is a rare and early 1970s Ossie Clark boutique blouse with the famous 'Black-Eyed Susan' print by Celia Birtwell. It is fully labelled and additionally has the Quorum boutique retail label which sold Ossie's costly mainline collections - they are much rarer than Radley retailed pieces. There are some wonderful softer design details in this blouse from the puff sleeves to the long tapered cuffs and the gathered yoke giving it a loose romantic poet's style aesthetic as the blouse is without darts. The print is a very beautiful red floral design against a mid-blue background in quality rayon fabric. The shirt has a pointed collar and the neckline is designed to be worn open, echoing the laid-back, louche feel of the cut. It is unlined.
In good to very good vintage condition overall - most Ossies have been worn and loved. We noted the following: a faint stain near the buttons just below the bust; some thinning to the fabric behind the left arm and a small stain behind the right. Some tiny, expert repairs have been made to the seams. The fabric has scattered speckles that we believe are inherent to the print - only visible when you are extremely close to the cloth. Labelled a UK size 14, US 10, I've worn it at this size and it has been a good fit. Would also suit sizes smaller where an oversized fit can be expected.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 42 in. (107 cm)
WAIST - 44 in. (112 cm)
HIP - 46 in. (117 cm)
LENGTH - 25 in. (64 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