1970s Jeff Banks Seafoam Green Dress with Floral Print
This 1970s does 1940s summer dress is by celebrated British designer Jeff Banks. The influential designer was a pivotal member of the swinging 60s London fashion scene when he cofounded 'Clobber' in Blackheath Village, London, in 1964. The boutique carried both his own designs and the work of other designers and attracted celebrities such as Terence Stamp and Jean Shrimpton, Twiggy and some of the Beatles. It proved such a success that in 1969, he launched his own fashion label, opening the first standalone Jeff Banks shop, as well as retail outlets in twenty-two department stores including Harrods and Harvey Nichols.
Tailored from a seafoam green, viscose-cotton blend with a slight shine to the finish, it is printed with leaves and florals in bold hues of yellow, pink, orange and red. Cut to a short-sleeve, open-collar style, it fastens with chunky fabric-covered buttons down the front. The wide lapels are trimmed with a contrasting darker shade of green floral cloth, which is repeated again at the cuffs, pockets and belt. It has a nipped-in waist and flared skirt and very much followed the tea dress trend at the time and a return to art deco influenced designs.
This is one of the best print examples of the designer's work we've had in our collection for a long time. The dress is in very good to excellent vintage condition; there is a linea area to the top of the left shoulder and sleeve which appears to have gently faded or 'bronzed' due to age. This is hard to spot as it's not apparent at all in lower light levels. And, in daylight, the colour change blends in well together with the light-reflective properties of the material. The composition label reads 60% Viscose, 30% Polynosic, 10% Cotton. The size on the label states UK 12, but please double-check the measurements below as vintage sizes run small. We estimate this is best in modern sizing for up to a UK 10 or US 6.
MEASUREMENTS:
BUST - 37 in. (94 cm)
WAIST - 27 in. (69 cm)
HIP - 42 in. (107 cm)
LENGTH - 45 in. (114 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