1970s Catherine Buckley Patchwork Cream Skirt and Jacket
British designer Catherine Buckley founded her brand in 1963 and went on to open her first shop in Notting Hill, London. Her romantic designs drew on historic references and found an audience among fashion fans and celebrities alike. This boho lux cream skirt suit was created for Buckley’s Fragile collection. To create this line, the designer used fabric samples, known as “strike-offs”, that dated from 1903-1937; jacquard nets in cotton, silk, chenille and viscose that were originally to be used as wall-hangings or curtains and that were woven with colourful, outlandish patterns. Patchworked across whimsical 1970s silhouettes, these garments went on to be stocked at Fortnum & Mason and written about in Cosmopolitan magazine in 1974.
This collectable ensemble is composed of a jacket and maxi-length skirt. Cut in an A-line shape, the skirt is full and kicks out around the wearer as they walk. It sits high on the waist and is lined with cream satin. It is secured with a hidden tonal zip at the rear. The exceptional jacket is tailored to a formal, button-up style. It has an elegant high-collar and is fastened with a multitude of small fabric-covered buttons and fabric loops. The bottom of the jacket hangs open and flares outwards around the hips, ending with a pretty scallop hem. The angel-sleeves, with their split cuffs and scallop hems, mirror this silhouette. Crafted from a patchwork of antique lace jacquards, the detail across both of these pieces is stunning up close. Lace detailed with elaborate geometric forms and botanical designs in vibrant hues are contrasted against each other, united by a uniform cream background. This jacket is fully lined with cream satin.
This memorable ensemble is in excellent vintage condition with no flaws of any note and is clean and ready to wear. Due to its age, this piece doesn't have a composition label, however the brand label reads, “This garment is made from a jacquard material oven between 1905 - 1953. Because of its age please handle with great care”. This dress is labelled a size UK 12, but vintage sizes vary hugely so please check the measurements below closely. We think it better suited to a UK size 10 or US 6 and smaller.
MEASUREMENTS JACKET
BUST - 36 in. (91 cm)
WAIST - 30 in. (76 cm)
HIP - 38 in. (97 cm)
LENGTH - 25 in. (64 cm)
SHOULDERS - 17 in. (43 cm)
MEASUREMENTS SKIRT
WAIST - 27 in. (69 cm)
HIP - 42 in. (107 cm)
LENGTH - 44 in. (112 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