1968 Documented Diorling by Christian Dior Blue Floral Coat Dress
The Diorling label was launched at the Christian Dior London boutique on Conduit Street in March 1968. Designed by Dior London head designer Jorn Langberg, the collection consisted of ready-to-wear garments aimed at a younger clientele. This coat dress has the original label which reads “Diorling by Christian Dior - London” in elaborately embroidered calligraphy. On October 10th, 1968, Christian Dior presented a special showing of their Autumn Collection and new Cruise Wear at the Dorchester Hotel, London.
This "hostess gown" was presented on model Joan Fullard and echoes the decade’s obsession with psychedelic prints. It is patterned with vibrant turquoise, violet and navy spots, set against a white background, which forms swirling floral patterns. It is collarless, and has a straight-cut, a-line design. Deceptively simple, it demonstrates the flawless tailoring that the House of Dior is so well known for. The fabric appears to be a heavy weight crepe of exceptional quality and the garment hold its shape very well. The front fastens with large fabric-covered buttons and fabric loops. The coat is lined with white satin.
This piece is in fantastic vintage condition and presents beautifully, particularly for a piece approaching 60 years of age. Please note: the lining is very lightly marked in certain sections inside the very bottom edge of the hem which is floor length - not noticeable at all when worn. We also noted light markings around the collar edge, very minor in nature. It is labelled a vintage size UK 14, but please check our below measurements carefully as we think this is better suited to a smaller UK 10-12 or US 6-8. There is no composition label and the fabric has no stretch.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 38 in. (97 cm)
WAIST - 44 in. (112 cm)
HIP - 50 in. (127 cm)
LENGTH - 60 in. (152 cm)
SHOULDERS - 17 in. (43 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