1970s Koos Van den Akker Floral Print Smocked Dress
1970s Koos Van den Akker floral smock dress. This is a pretty and detailed design from the famous Dutch designer after he moved to NYC in 1968 from The Hague, Netherlands. He was renowned for his textile work and came to the attention of the House of Dior where he was selected for a three year apprenticeship in 1963. This early exposure to Haute Couture and fabric selection influenced all of his work for the rest of his career and he was particularly adept at mixing and matching prints. Koos, passed away in 2015 after a successful 50 year career. His celebrity clients were fashion icons including Elizabeth Taylor, Cher, Lauren Hutton, Brooke Shields, Isabella Rossellini and Glenn Close to name but a few.
Crafted from a stunning floral man-made chiffon, the fabric sets vibrant fuchsia, yellow and pale blue flowers and rich green foliage against an inky black background. The dress is sheer which softens the drama of the print and lends a romantic, whimsical feel to it. The silhouette is so of the era; frothy bell-sleeves and a floaty mid-length skirt are cinched in by intricate, elasticated smocking across the waistband and cuffs. The open neck and tie collar add a laid-back feel and recalls the neckline on tunics and kaftans - also so popular during this time. This dress is put on by pulling over the head. It is unlined.
In excellent vintage condition with no flaws of any note. Because of its billowing tailoring, this dress could fit up to a size UK 14, US 10 and is fairly true to size in our opinion.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 44 in. (112 cm)
WAIST - 36 in. (91 cm)
HIP - 50 in. (127 cm)
LENGTH - 45 in. (114 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