1988 Runway Documented Karl Lagerfeld Floral Marie Antionette Dress
Known as the Marie Antionette dress, this outstanding design walked the runway as part of Karl Lagerfeld's memorable Spring/Summer 1988 collection. A true statement piece, this dress features a corseted bodice with internal boning, and ruching around the top section to add definition. The waist is beautifully fitted all the way through to the top of the hip, where the skirt section is attached and finished with thick rolled cotton piping. The skirt is heavily padded at each hip using intricate layers of fine white mesh, to mimic the exaggerated silhouettes of 18th century court dresses, like those worn by Marie Antionette. The fabric of the dress is a soft, structured cotton with an abstract, almost painterly floral pattern in shades of lemon yellow, pale grey, pale green and dusty pink. The inside of the skirt is lined in a fine layer of white mesh, which helps to create a sense of volume, and the dress fastens at the back with a central zip and hook and eye.
This piece is in excellent vintage condition, with no discernible faults we could spot. It is labelled as 100% Cotton. Although labelled a French 40, or UK 12, the dress would best fit up to a UK size 8-10, with a small waist, as seen here on our model, or a US size 4-6. The fabric has no stretch.
MEASUREMENTS
Bust - 35 in. (88.9 cm)
Waist - 25 in. (63.5 cm)
Hip - 58 in. (147.3 cm)
Length - 35 in. (88.9 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