1980s Bees Knees Emerald Green Strapless Dress
Stylish 1980s emerald green strapless dress by Bees Knees. The dress is exceptionally well made with the workmanship being at couture standards. We can only assume this was made by talented couture dressmaker, perhaps as a bespoke commission as we've not seen this label before. It has the archetypal look of the era which crossed over into the early 1990s; a sweetheart neckline, structured bodice and Princess seamed torso finished off with a gathered wrap skirt that is shorter at the front than the back. A decorative bow to the front of the dress consolidates the look.
At the back, the dress features a bow with a cut-out element to allow for a carefully concealed bra strap. The zip is skillfully concealed down the left-hand line of the seam. Inside the dress is exquisitely lined so that the lining covers all of the integral boning. The fabric feels like silk or a man made version.
In very good vintage condition; here is a tiny, faded mark on one of the Princess seams and a couple of other small marks that are lost in the folds of the gathered wrap skirt - we had to look very carefully to find them. Best suited for UK size 6-8 or US size 2. Our model is a UK 6-8 and 5ft 4in. (163cm) and this dress was a great fit on her.
MEASUREMENTS
Bust - 30 in. (76.2 cm)
Waist - 26 in. (66 cm)
Hip - 31 in. (78.7 cm)
Length - 39 in. (99 cm)
Shoulders - FREE
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