1970s Ossie Clark Black Moss Crepe Trouser Suit
This rare trouser suit was designed by Ossie Clark for Radley in the late 1960s to 1970s. After the designer’s mainline boutique faced financial difficulties, the company was purchased by Radley in 1967. Radley distributed the brand around the world through the introduction of the Ossie Clark for Radley line - one of fashion's first diffusion lines.
The suit is tailored from moss crepe, a crinkly, tactile crepe with a moss-like texture known for its flexibility when draped - a signature cloth of the label. The silhouette of the suit is distinctly Ossie Clark and very 1970s. The jacket is tailored to a wrap-around style, a wide black satin belt means that the fit can be adjusted. It has a peasant top-style neckline with a drawstring that ties at the front of the décolletage. Flared angel-sleeves add playful detail. The jacket has an asymmetric, ruffled hem which is emphasised when the waistband is cinched. The sleeves and hems are trimmed with black satin. The trousers have a very high waist cut and a wide silhouette that flares out towards the floor. They are fastened at the back with a hidden black tonal zip and hook-and-eye clasp. Both the jacket and trousers are unlined. We have attached photos of similar Ossie trouser suits from the same period made from his signature moss crepe.
This two-piece ensemble is in excellent vintage condition with no issues of any note. It is labelled a size UK 14, but this is better suited in modern sizing to no bigger than a UK 6-8 or US 2-4 with a tiny waist as Ossie Clark trousers are notoriously slim fitting. The fabric is labelled “moss crepe” which is 100% Polyester. It has the smallest amount of stretch.
MEASUREMENTS TOP
BUST - 34 in. (86 cm)
WAIST - 30 in. (76 cm)
LENGTH - 30 in. (76 cm)
MEASUREMENTS TROUSERS
WAIST - 24 in. (61 cm)
HIP - 38 in. (97 cm)
RISE - 14.5 in. (37 cm)
LENGTH - 48 in. (122 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
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