1954 Pierre Balmain Haute Couture Silk Brocade Dress and Jacket Suit
This 1950s silk brocade two piece couture dress set has a stunning paisley pattern in pink and gold threads. The dress features a scalloped edge trim to the top of the bodice and three sets of darts leading down from the bust to nip in the waist, creating the classic '50s fitted shape. The skirt has two pockets, both silk lined and pleasantly deep for what you might expect of a vintage piece. The interior of the dress is also lined in champagne silk, which soft to the touch. The boning to the front of the bodice is beautifully intact, providing shape and structure to the bust area. The brocade fabric is lovely and thick, with a real quality feel to it. Based on the fact that the dress is entirely handmade and the fabric is identical to that used in Balmain's 1954 collection (pictured), we are willing to attribute this piece to Pierre Balmain.
The jacket, though unlined, is made up of the same fabric, and is cropped slightly in both length and on the arms, as was typical of many dress jackets of the era to emphasise the waist and allow the wearer to show off bracelet jewellery. It has a simple rounded edge collar and a straight seam running down the back. Both the dress and the jacket are in very good vintage condition with no issues and are unlabelled French couture. At some point the dress has been let out along the side seams but it has been done very well and is only noticeable on close inspection. It looks as though there may have been a lining in the jacket as the dress is lined is silk, and the jacket is unlined. You can see the rough workings inside the jacket, especially when compared to the stunning lined interior of the dress. The suit would best fit up to a size 8 UK, or 4 US. It would make a wonderful alternative wedding outfit or for a special occasion piece. Our model is a UK 6-8 and 5ft 4in. (163cm) and this dress was a good fit on the waist but roomy on her bust, we pinned the dress.
MEASUREMENTS:
DRESS:
BUST: 32 in. ( 81.28 cm )
WAIST: 26 in. ( 66.04 cm )
HIP: 38 in. ( 96.52 cm )
LENGTH: 35 in. ( 88.9 cm )
JACKET:
BUST: 40 in. ( 101.6 cm )
WAIST: 38 in. ( 96.52 cm )
HIP: 38 in. ( 96.52 cm )
LENGTH: 20 in. ( 50.8 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