1978 Runway Documented Valentino Floral Black Silk Maxi Dress
A very special runway documented Valentino maxi dress from the spring 1978 collection and designed by Mr Garavani a few years after founding his Valentino Boutique line. Tailored from smooth, slightly sheer silk, it is patterned with an incredibly detailed floral print showing lemon yellow, candy pink and apricot orange roses nestled amongst sage green foliage. The print is broken up across the top of the dress by panels of sheer black lace which create a sensuous peekaboo effect. The black lace also trims the skirt in horizontal stripes to the bottom hem. A wide boat-neckline reveals the décolletage and the sleeves are long and cut to a frothy bell shape with lace-trimmed, ruffled cuffs. The dress has a cinched waist and gives way to a full skirt with a slightly longer back hem that sweeps the floor. The dress is unlined and does not require a slip.
The late 1970s was the pinnacle of the 'boho luxe' vibe in fashion and one of Circa's favourite periods in fashion history. Documented pieces from Valentino in this era are rare to market and this dress is in truly excellent vintage condition; looks barely worn and has no issues. Labelled a vintage US size 8 and 100% Silk. It runs smaller; our model is a UK 8-10 or US 4-6, 5'4" or 163 cm, and this was a good fit on her with a little room to spare in most places.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 36 in. (91 cm)
WAIST - 28 in. (71 cm)
HIP - 68 in. (173 cm)
LENGTH - 54 in. (137 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