ARCHIVE - Hardy Amies Couture 1950s Silk Satin Aquamarine Occasion Dress
This incredible 1950s Hardy Amies couture label rich silk satin occasion dress in pale aquamarine perfectly showcases the skill and refinement for which its designer is extolled. Celebrated for opulent occasion wear in structured silks, Amis was a favourite of the young Princess Elizabeth prior to her Coronation, and was subsequently appointed Royal Dressmaker in 1955. Among Royals, his clientele also included the actresses Vivienne Leigh, Deborah Kerr, the Duchess of Devonshire, Princess Michael of Kent and Barbara Cartland.
The dress is sleeveless and although beautifully tailored, is not wasted in the traditional sense. The waist is defined by an oversized sash feature which is sculpted into pleats and sewn into the bodice level with the waist at the reverse, gradating upwards beneath the breast to a centre point at the mid bust. The neckline hosts a gathered sailor style collar that descends from the reverse over the shoulders towards the bust and consolidates with the sash feature at the centre bust below a full length front tie feature. The tie runs the length of the centre front before it surpasses the hem at the base of the skirt. The reverse of the dress has a deep V plunge at the upper back, and a concealed zip fastening at the centre. There are some polite reinforcements in the lining of the bodice behind the bust, and the dress is fully lined in ivory silk. This magnificent piece is in very good vintage condition with some age related wear to the silk on the shoulders; we've done the best restoration we can so this is not apparent when wearing. Approximate size is US size 8, UK size 10 -12.
MEASUREMENTS:
BUST - 34 in. (86.36 cm)
WAIST - 30 in. (76.2 cm)
HIP - 36 in. (91.44 cm)
LENGTH - 41 in. (104.14 cm)
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