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ARCHIVE: 1950s Cahill of Beverly Hills Taffeta and Lace Wedding Dress

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This is an extraordinary vintage wedding dress from the late 1950s to early 1960s, from one of the best-known names in Beverly Hills that dressed the very wealthy. It really was the place to go to find your wedding dress. With an elegant silhouette, the gown features a crisscross pleated balconette in tulle fabric that is also edged in a floral rose lace that has been speckled with iridescent sequins. With a beautifully Princess seamed bodice, the dress has a very nipped in, darted waist. This falls into a wide skirt with a deep rose lace flounce that again has been edged with rose lace trim, hewn with sequins.

The top layer of the dress is an off-white silk or silk blend fabric. With 3 tulle underskirts, the whole underdress is further lined in a superb quality acetate. Overall, there are five layers to the skirt. The dress fastens to the rear with a series of hook and eyes to conceal the original centre back metal zip. The bodice is gently padded and the label, Cahill of Beverly Hills is present. The dress oozes class and although a very classic look, it is without the 'meringue' element. In fabulous vintage condition; on very close inspection we note a small, faded finger print sized mark near a side seam that looks like it could have been champagne – it has been photographed. This would never be noticed when worn due to the volume of fabric in the way. It may improve further with specialist cleaning. There is also a repaired vertical tear to the lace flounce but we missed this twice in inspection - it has been done very well. Our model is a UK 8 (US 4) on top and 10 (US 6) on bottom and this fits her to perfection.

Operating out of a storefront in West Los Angeles, Cahill of Beverly Hills soon became the mid-century gold standard for bridal couture from the 1940s to the 1970s, invoking Hollywood glamour and romance. Cahill’s gowns graced the covers of popular bridal magazines and were featured in the wedding announcements of fashionable Los Angeles couples. His designs were even worn by actress Katharine Ross in the award-winning 1967 film, The Graduate. Cahill of Beverly Hills enjoyed a reputation for attention to detail, timeless grace, and exceptional craftsmanship. Using only the finest fabrics and materials, Cahill gowns were worth the pretty penny it took to buy them.

MEASUREMENTS
Bust - 36 in. (91.4 cm)
Waist - 26 in. (66 cm)
Hip - 46 in. (116.8 cm)
Length - 60 in. (152.4 cm)
Shoulders - FREE

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