1950s Red Silk Off-The-Shoulder Dress
This colour-block red silk cocktail dress was manufactured in America in the mid-1950s. The off-the-shoulder tailoring adds a playfully sensuous detail, whilst the cap-sleeves, cinched waist and pleated full skirt are trademarks of the era. The taffeta crimson silk has a lovely thick texture and supports the structured style of the dress. The flamboyant bow and collared neckline give way to ruched fabric at the waist. Lined in silk organza and closes with a hidden central zip to the rear. Although unlabelled, the dress is excellent quality and probably made for a high-end US department store. Photographed and modelled without under skirts but these could be added for a more dramatic effect.
The dress presents very well and is in good to very good vintage condition overall. It has a very faint water mark on the rear left side seam and two on the front. A small silk graze on the underside of a pleat, some very minor letting out of the underarm seams and evidence of later machine overlocking on a handful of edges internally in the bust area. The left-hand underarm seam has been re-enforced but its been done well by our couture seamstress. These issues are minor in nature for a dress that is now around 70 years old and none of these can be noticed when worn. She is strong and wearable and our model is a UK 6-8, US 2-4 and 5ft 4in (163cm). This dress fit her well.
MEASUREMENTS
Bust - 32 in. (86 cm)
Waist - 24 in. (91 cm)
Hip - 40 in. (102 cm)
Length - 40 in. (142 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