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1950s Traina-Norrell Yellow Taffeta Silk Rose Print Dress

£895.00
This is a really unusual couture made dress from Traina-Norrell that is almost certainly from the mid to late 1950s. The fabric is a superb silk taffeta in a rose print whilst the colours are chartreuse and earth tones of ochre and orange. It has wide straps, a fitted empire bust line with a balconette lining inside and a grosgrain strap to support the under bust. From the empire line flares an elongated A-line Princess seamed bodice. The low slung skirt, which is a deep gathered flounce, finishes below the knee and is of particularly lavish construction. There is a stiffened fine linen backing the flounce that is also supported by a second yellow linen under flounce to give unrivalled volume. The dress is also lined in a stiffened dyed yellow organza type fabric to give the dress a very structured look. It fastens to the rear with the original metal zip that is hidden along one of the seams. The dress, by one of the finest partnerships of decadent evening and occasion wear during the period is labelled Traina-Norrell. At first, we almost missed the label as it is hidden in the folds of the flounce towards the bottom of the dress. In very good to excellent vintage condition overall. Silk taffeta is notoriously prone to aging and this silk is in extremely good condition with no yarn separation. We have dry cleaned and the silk retains all of its lustre. However, in certain places, notably near the back of the zip, there is what we would call 'handling marks' which has resulted in slight 'greying' of the fabric, although it's very difficult to spot unless looking closely. There is the tiniest amount of fraying on the very edges of the shoulder straps.

There is a very wide seam allowance on this dress and it could be altered at least one size bigger if not two by a trained seamstress. Our model is size UK 8 top - UK10 bottom or US 4-6 and this fits her well.

Note on Designer:

Normal Norell was one of the first American designers to have his name on a dress label. Partnering with Hattie Carnegie from 1928-1940 and then with Anthony Traina until his death in 1960. Up to this point, Norell's name only appeared on tags as Triana-Norell until 1960 when he formed his own company, Norman Norell. The company closed in 1976.

MEASUREMENTS
Bust - 34 in. (86.4 cm)
Waist - 34 in. (86.4 cm)
Hip - 42 in. (106.7 cm)
Length - 39.5 in. (100.3 cm)
Shoulders - N/A

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