ARCHIVE - Late 1950's Green and Purple Floral Lame Cocktail Dress
This irresistibly pretty late 1950's lame cocktail dress is lovely in both its delicate surface texture and its cleverly constructed design. The fabric is slightly embossed with a subtle leaf motif, accentuated by fine gold thread running through the weave. The underlying textile is a gentle floral pattern in soft shades of lilac, blue and pale green, giving the garment a light and airy appeal. The silk lined bodice has a gradual v neckline and is followed by modest contouring around the breast. Symmetrical panelling on the bodice gives way to exquisitely crafted horizontal pleating around the hip, before falling into the simple shift style skirt, sweeping just below the knee. The deep V neck at the reverse of the garment tastefully reveals the upper back and shoulders then graduates into a generous fan tail feature at the base of the spine. The full zip at the centre is artfully concealed with a small fastening at the top. The dress is in very good vintage condition with no faults of any note, fully lined and hand finished around the hem and neckline. Would best fit US size 8, UK size 12. Unlabelled but American made and could be Ceil Chapman as we sold a very similar design by this designer previously.
MEASUREMENTS:
BUST - 38 in. (96.52 cm)
WAIST - 32 in. (81.28 cm)
HIP - 38 in. (96.52 cm)
LENGTH - 41 in. (104.14 cm)
Pickup currently unavailable at CIRCA VINTAGE
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