1950s Susan Small Textured French Blue Cotton Shirt Dress
Fabulous late 1950s to early 1960s blue jacquard check dress. Manufactured by well regarded British ready to wear designer Susan Small and retailing in Edinburgh's finest department store, Jenners. We have sold many vintage Susan Small dresses over the years and a few included Harrods retail labels; they are always fabulous quality. It is tailored from a stiffened cotton jacquard, possibly mixed with wool or silk with a textured, almost bouclé-like handle. The stiffness of this cloth adds a formality and elevates this dress to occasion wear for the daytime. The nipped-waist and full, box-pleated skirt emphasise that classic feminine ‘50s shape, and the wide neckline reveals the décolletage. Large, glossy black plastic buttons secure the length of the front. The skirt is fully lined in a thick black felt which adds to the rigidity and means that it holds its shape. The sleeves are three-quarter length and are finished with a textured blue cotton bow. They have white cotton faux-shirt cuffs peeking out at the ends. The original label reads “Susan Small - Made in England”.
This dress is in excellent vintage condition and very fresh looking. There was a button missing at the top that we have replaced with a similar sized example. We were minded to change all the buttons; however, the Circa team unanimously preferred the collar turned down where the button would never be seen. The dress was styled in the studio with the dress fully done up to show you the higher-cut square neckline and if the wearer preferred this styling, the top button could always be exchanged for one down the bottom. Due to its age, there is no composition or size label so please check the measurements our below as the fabric has no stretch. Our model is a UK 6-8 and 5ft 4in (163cm) and this dress was a good fit on her with plenty of room to spare. We think it could be worn by sizes up to a UK 10-12 or US 6-8 with a small waist.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 38 in (97 cm)
WAIST - 28 in. (71 cm)
HIP - 42 in. (107 cm)
LENGTH - 43 in. (109 cm)
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