1970s Gina Fratini White and Blue Floral Cotton Maxi Dress
This is a superb example of her flamboyant work, probably mid 1970s, with a tiered mousseline cotton dress with a high neck collar and a lace ruffle trim paired with a sleeveless bolero jacket. The jacket is integral to the dress and is attached at the shoulder seams.
The dress is split into two tiers, one tier with a floral print that finishes just around knee length. The floral spray print is shaped like a bouquet, tied with a double bow and actually has the designer's name attached as a kind of gift card. I've never seen Gina Fratini apply her name to print before. The bottom tier, which reaches to the floor, is an A-line panel of plain white mousseline that is also edged in lace.
The sleeves are gently gathered and have a frill hem whilst it fastens to the rear with the longest tier having the original metal zip. The other two layers are simply fastened with a couple of hook and eyes at the neckline. The print on the capelet is quite abstract looking with a procession of circles in a teal green and pale navy.
An elaborate dress suitable for special occasions; it would make a fantastic alternative wedding dress. Both pieces are is in really super vintage condition with no issues of any note. The muslin has been freshly laundered and it is ready to wear. It will fit sizes up to a UK 8-10 or US 4-6.
NOTES ON DESIGNER:
Gina Fratini was a British designer renowned during the 1970s and early 1980s for her romantic gowns which were of elaborate construction. She was a favourite of many an aristocratic debutante and Princess Diana wore her designs on several state occasions. Elizabeth Taylor famously chose a medieval style Gina Fratini gown for her second marriage to Richard Burton.
MEASUREMENTS
Bust - 34 in. (86.4 cm)
Waist - 26 in. (66 cm)
Hip - 35 in. (88.9 cm)
Length - 57 in. (144.8 cm)
Shoulders - 17 in. (43.2 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.
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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.
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Yes but please do let us know the size of your party in advance.
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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.
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We will advise you on the best way to clean and preserve your vintage pieces and can also recommend trusted local dry cleaners.
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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.
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