ARCHIVE - 1950s Worth Demi Couture Black Silk Chiffon Dress

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A timeless and original 1950s evening dress by the grandfather of Haute Couture, the House of Worth. This piece has the British demi-couture label sewn in which represents the highest level of ready to wear clothing. The dress is a combination of machine stitching and hand sewing. It has two layers - the underdress being a soft black silk overlaid with a chiffon silk that has been heat treated to give it a slightly textured look. The construction is magnificent - there is a wide scoop neck and to the left hand side, a dainty shoulder bow made of the same chiffon. The dress has an additional draped half panel on the bodice which gives a cowl neck effect. The body panelling is superb, fanning out towards the hem so that the excess fabric forms soft pleats towards the bottom of the hem. There is a back central zip for access and the waist line is contoured to give a wonderfully flattering shape. To complete the elegance of this look, there is a long and wide gathered train attached to the top of the shoulder that runs the length of the dress. This feature is cut so that the fabric could pass over the right shoulder and form a cape if desired. The hem length is to mid calf or just above on the average height woman.

This piece is in really beautiful vintage condition. There are no holes or stains in the fabric. On very close inspection we have noted a very small, neat repair on one of the seams lower down at the back of the dress - thats it for faults. The measurements suggest that this would fit up to a UK 12 or US 8.

MEASUREMENTS:
BUST - 41 in. (104.1 cm)
WAIST - 36.4 in. (92.5 cm)
HIP - 42 in. (106.7 cm)
LENGTH - 12.7 in. (32.3 cm)
SHOULDERS - 44.5 in. (113 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