ARCHIVE: Jaques Heim Demi Couture 1950s New Look Black Dress

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This striking 1950s New-Look style evening gown by Jaques Heim demonstrates some impeccable tailoring skills. The dress is of heavy starched black cotton and styled to flatter a classic hourglass silhouette. The wide angled straps graduate seamlessly into a gentle décolletage neckline with a skilful fold in the fabric over the centre of the bust brining each breast to a point. A curved seam below the line of the bust draws the lower half of the bodice in neatly towards the waist, which details a neat bow to the right in juxtaposition to a matching bow at the base of the left shoulder strap. The full skirt is lined with a multi-tired Spanish style sateen petticoat that is not visible when worn and has a crinoline effect. The overlay is closely lined in a layer of starched fabric to ensure the line of the shirt remains crisp. Two folds of fabric are sewn into the skirt, crossing over the naval and widening at an A line towards the hem. There is a central zip fastening at the reverse. This magnificent piece is in excellent condition and would best suit US size 0-2 UK size 6.

Jacques Heim was a Parisian designer specialising in furs and couture for women and opened his own couture house in the 1930s. As well as starting a chain of sportswear boutiqes, he was renowned for his beachwear and was one of the first designers of the two-piece bikini called the Atome (French for 'atom').

  • BUST
    34 in. (86.36 cm)
  • WAIST
    24 in. (60.96 cm)
  • HIP
    38 in. (96.52 cm)
  • LENGTH
    38 in. (96.52 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 - 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