ARCHIVE - 1950s Marjorie Montgomery Black Novelty 3D Hand Painted Fish Print Dress
ARCHIVE - 1950s Marjorie Montgomery Black Novelty 3D Hand Painted Fish Print Dress
ARCHIVE - 1950s Marjorie Montgomery Black Novelty 3D Hand Painted Fish Print Dress
ARCHIVE - 1950s Marjorie Montgomery Black Novelty 3D Hand Painted Fish Print Dress
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ARCHIVE - 1950s Marjorie Montgomery Black Novelty 3D Hand Painted Fish Print Dress

£0.00 Sold out

Incredible 1950s Marjorie Montgomery black cotton dress with 3D hand painted fish. This dress is really fun and definitely something no-one will have seen before. The classic cut with cap sleeves combined with an unusual scoop neckline. The fish on the skirt are made from pink and green felt with beaded eyes and even a little oyster with a pearl, surrounded by hand painted reeds. Made from a heavy cotton it hangs beautifully with an almost full skirt and fully lined in bright coral pink. Would be an excellent dress for both day and evening, depending on how you style it. Fastens with a metal side zip and in excellent condition showing no real signs of wear. Marjorie Montgomery began designing in 1926 and become most known for her cotton dresses. As part of The Affiliated Fashionists of California working along side designers such as Louellon Ballerino and Addie Masters, she became one of the most well known Californian designers throughout the 1920s – 1960s. Unfortunately in the 1940s she had to give up her own label due to financial reasons but then was able to set up a new label called “Marjories Things”. It was at this time that she invented something that fulfilled the needs of the American women who were beginning to dress more casually. This was a playsuit that could be transformed into a dress by simply adding the extra skirt layer at the waist where it was joined by a belt over the shorts when desired. This was particularly innovative of Marjorie and something she has been remembered for.

  • MARKED SIZE
    2-4 (US)
  • BUST
    36 in. (91.44 cm)
  • WAIST
    26 in. (66.04 cm)
  • LENGTH
    48 in. (121.92 cm)

Pickup currently unavailable at CIRCA VINTAGE

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