1970s Andrea Wilkin Cream Silk and Peach Ribbon Polonaise Dress

This original 1970s vintage dress is the most overtly romantic gown we have had in our collection for some time and the design is inspired by the 18th century 'robe à la polonaise'. This garment has a lavish amount of real silk, lace and ribbon work embellishment with many exaggerated design elements. The materials used are of the utmost quality and the condition is perfect. Little is known about the English boutique brand Andrea Wilkin as her extraordinary bridal wear and Liberty print designs do not come to market often. The bodice has a detailed cream silk pin tuck and ribbon design with a central Brussels lace panel. A wider peach satin ribbon in box pleats edges the sweetheart neckline. The skirt has a tambour lace peplum around the waist and is very full, with 2 multi-tiered layers. The top cream chiffon tier reminds us of a layered wedding cake with rosettes placed in between the draping; the second tier is full-length and is edged in the same peach satin ribbon trim. The underskirt is in the softest peach Fuji silk which is the skin layer, with a very wide attached white tulle flounce edged in satin trim. The dress fastens to the rear with a concealed zip.

This piece would be a fabulous choice for a wedding or statement dress for a summer party. There is no size label present but this will fit up to a UK 10-12 US 6-8. Our model is a UK 8-10.

The robe à la polonaise became fashionable in Europe during the 1770s and had its origins in much earlier historical costume design. Dresses had some or all of the following elements; a cutaway or layer dress and a draped and swagged overskirt which was worn over an underskirt or petticoat.


MEASUREMENTS:

Bust - 33 in (83.8 cm)
Waist - 32 in (81.3 cm)
Hip - 40 in (101.6 cm)
Length - 53 in (134.6 cm)
Shoulders - FREE