ARCHIVE: 1960s Mike Bennett Ivory Sequinned Evening Dress or Wedding Gown
This is a superb mid 1960s sequinned gown labelled Mike Bennett Formals, a company founded in the early 1960's in Pittsburg, Texas. Undoubtedly, the most striking feature is the lavish sequinned embellishment over the front of the dress in a combination of clear sequins with white iridescent sequins sweeping the sweetheart neckline. The design comprises a large floral spray, also made of of the white iridescent sequins that breaks up the tightly packed clear sequence of scrolls. The sweetheart neckline and bodice is beautifully shaped and darted whilst the skirt is cut from several A-line panels of cream sateen fabric that give the dress a full flared skirt. The dress does up to the rear with the original concealed zip as well as hook and eyes. Turning the dress inside out, there is a tiered net underskirt that is attached to the waistline which provides structure to the front sequinned area. The rest of the dress is unlined and could be worn with or without a stiffened under skirt.
Condition is good overall. This can certainly be worn to a red carpet event or as a glamorous evening dress. The bodice is excellent - very clean and fresh and there is no sequin loss. On close inspection we noted a liner area of faint brown staining and a further two areas where there is faint circular yellow staining, both on the back of the dress. There are a faint marks residing along some segments of the bottom hem sweeping the floor but this is very minor. We have dry cleaned the dress which has improved the condition to the point where these stains are virtually unnoticeable when wearing due to aligning with the hidden folds of the skirt. Dresses such as these are notoriously difficult to find in superb condition so we have been cautious with this listing - she is still a very beautiful dress. Suitable for up to size UK 6-8 or US 2-4.
MEASUREMENTS:
Bust - 34 in (86.4 cm)
Waist - 25 in (63.5 cm)
Hip - FREE
Length - 59 in (149.9 cm)
Shoulders - FREE
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