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ARCHIVE: Early Jean Varon Late 1950s Georgette Wedding Gown

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This late 1950s to early 1960s wedding dress is a rare thing. It is the earliest wedding dress and indeed the earliest item we've ever seen from designer Jean Varon who founded his own label in 1959. It is the classic archetypal layered wedding dress with the outer layer of the dress fashioned from a nylon georgette crepe fabric which overlays a strapless fitted bustier. The skirt is a lavish affair with many layers, starting with a structural circularly bound calico layer covered by a second, then a layer of acetate, followed with two final layers of tulle and georgette. This dress showcases princess length sleeves and has a high scoop high neck. It fastens to the back with the original metal zip and some hook and eyes at the waistline and at the top of the bustier.

It is in absolutely incredible vintage condition and has clearly only been worn once for the big day evidenced by the fact it is in virtually faultless vintage condition. We note just a couple of tiny blemishes in the georgette but given the lavish amount of fabric, it is absolutely impossible to detect these when worn. There is no age-related yellowing that often befalls dresses from this era, and it looks just as good as the day it was made. Although it is labelled a vintage size 12, it is best suited to a UK 8 to 10 in modern sizing. A rare piece of fashion history from one of Britain's most revered designers,


MEASUREMENTS
Bust - 35 in. (88.9 cm)
Waist - 26 in. (66 cm)
Hip - 50 in. (127 cm)
Min. Length - 61 in. (154.9 cm)
Max. Length - 78 in. (198.1 cm)
Shoulders - 17 in. (43.2 cm)
Sleeve head to cuff - 17 in. (43.2 cm)

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. 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 with me?

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?

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?

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 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 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