1985 Runway Documented Valentino Strapless Silk and Crepe Dress
Made in Italy, this vibrant patterned party dress walked the runway for Valentino’s Spring 1985 collection. At the bust, a frothy chiffon overlay sits over a simple strapless dress silhouette. The black chiffon is patterned with painterly florals in white outlines splashed with the primary colours: red, blue and yellow. This memorable fabric is also seen in the couture collection from the same year. Stunningly crafted, the bodice is boned all the way around and is fully lined with thick black canvas. There are modesty straps to help cinch the waist further. The skirt falls straight in a pencil style and has a small pleat at the rear for ease of movement. In a flamboyant flourish typical to this collection, the dress is adorned with a large sash in coordinating patterned chiffon. This sweeps over the shoulder to form a one-shoulder silhouette and attaches at the lower back - it can be styled in different ways, straight over the shoulder or at an angle as seen on the runway. A wide train of chiffon falls from this point which flares out behind the wearer as they walk - or dance. It fastens under the arm with a hidden black tonal zip and hook-and-eye clasp.
This documented dress, from a famed designer, is in excellent vintage condition with no flaws of any note and looks barely worn. The dress is a labelled a US 10 and the fabric has no stretch. This is a little smaller by today's standards of sizing so we estimate a good fit for sizes UK 10-12 or US 6-8.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 32 in. (81 cm)
WAIST - 31 in. (79 cm)
HIP - 40 in. (102 cm)
LENGTH - 36 in. (91 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