1940s Rayon Novelty Garden Print Skirt Suit with Velvet Trim
This 1940s novelty cold rayon skirt suit is tailored to a pretty and feminine tea-dress style, typical of this era. Both pieces are tailored from a midnight blue cloth which looks almost black, patterned with gardening tools - very unusual! Printed in green, cream and fuchsia rose, it shows watering cans, wheelbarrows, birdhouses, shovels, baskets and plant pots, alongside flowers and shrubs. This top has short-sleeves and a nipped-in waist. It is detailed with soft black silk velvet across the collar, cuffs and buttons. The neckline is cut in a V-shape and is finished with a tie at the neck. The skirt is cut to a high-waisted fit. It is detailed with a few soft pleats which add a flippy, playful feel. It fastens at the rear with a hidden zip and magenta coloured plastic button which is probably a thoughtfully matched replacement as the buttons on the blouse are velvet. Both the top and skirt are unlined.
This matching suit is in very good to excellent vintage condition for an original 1940s set. Both pieces are very wearable together, or as separates and are a great choice for the Goodwood Revival. I noted the following with the garments in hand only; three very well executed repairs to the rayon on the right shoulder which we have photographed. And, the skirt has been let out down at the side seams, I barely noticed as it has been done so well. The zip is a good quality, modern replacement in brown and the button moved to the very edge, leaving a small indentation at the previous site. You will also see a few areas where there are some minor brown markings, almost impossible to spot when worn due to the darker background colour and the interesting print. These observations are very minor and do not detract from an outfit that has been carefully preserved for 80 years. No labels are present so please check our below measurements carefully as the fabric has no stretch. We believe this would best fit sizes up to a UK size 12 or a US 8.
MEASUREMENTS TOP
BUST - 43 in. (109 cm)
WAIST - 34 in. (86 cm)
LENGTH - 21 in. (53 cm)
MEASUREMENTS SKIRT
WAIST - 30 in. (76 cm)
HIP - 46 in. (117 cm)
LENGTH - 25 in. (64 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