1970s Giorgio di Sant' Angelo White Crochet Maxi Dress with Ribbon
Designed in the early 1970s by the great American stylist and designer Giorgio di Sant' Angelo, he is best remembered for his fashion shoot in 1968 with the model Veruschka for Vogue. It was a revolutionary fashion spread at the time, ushering in the 1970’s boho-hippie-gypset look that has continued to inspire countless designers and editorial fashion shoots.
This dress is a good example of Sant' Angelo's signature look and a similar but more elaborate example was exhibited at the Phoenix Art Museum at a retrospective of his work; we have referenced the design here. It is tailored to an ankle-grazing maxi length from intricately woven white crochet with full-length sleeves and flared cuffs. At the wrists, framing the pretty angel-cuffs, there are three beautiful ribbons embroidered onto the crochet cloth; one fuchsia pink, one vibrant apple green and one embroidered with yellow roses and pink flowers. There is further ribbon work on the skirt, five stripes in pink and green hues embroidered onto the skirt at the knee, just before it flares. The sleeves are sheer and flashes of skin can be glimpsed through them. This dress is fully lined in white satin from the bust down.
There are two labels inside. One is made from paper and reveals the order number and style, the other is The International Ladies Garment Workers Union (ILGWU) label for the dates, 1964 to 1973. The designer label is missing but we can be certain of attribution to Sant' Angelo. This piece is in excellent vintage condition with no flaws of any note to the crochet or ribbon work. It has no composition or size labels, so please check the measurements below; we think it would suit sizes up to a larger UK 8 or US 4. Our model is (5 ft 4 in / 163 cm) and size UK 6 - 8 or US 2 - 4; this fit her well with a little room to spare.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 32 in (81 cm)
WAIST - 28 in (71 cm)
HIP - 37 in (94 cm)
LENGTH - 56 in (142 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