1970s Thea Porter Cotton Woven Print Maxi Dress with Lace Overlay
This maxi-dress is a classic Thea Porter piece from her ready to wear line. During the 1960s and 1970s, Porter travelled the world and introduced her lavish take on bohemia to the London celebrity set. Taking its lead from kaftan designs, this V-neck maxi-dress is crafted from semi-sheer cotton which is machine embroidered all over with geometric shapes in off-white and ruby red. It is tailored to an empire-line silhouette with gentle pleats falling from under the bust. There are wide panels of white lace that form stripes across the skirt and sleeves. The oh-so-’70s bell-sleeves are formed with puff-shoulders and elastic cuffs. The dress fastens at the rear with a hidden black zip.
This piece is in truly excellent vintage condition with no fade or flaws of any note. It has been very carefully cleaned by the owner of Circa, an expert in vintage cleaning and restoration and in addition, new elastic was added to the sleeves. The original label is stitched with the Thea Porter flower-embellished brand name in green thread and we can date this piece to the Fall 1971 collection. Due to its age, there is no fabric label but the garment is definitely cotton gauze or a cotton blend. The size label reads UK 12 but vintage sizes vary hugely so please check our measurements below. The fabric does not have any stretch to it. We feel it would be better suited in modern sizes up to a UK 10 or US 6.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 32 in. (81 cm)
WAIST - 36 in. (91 cm)
HIP - 56 in. (142 cm)
LENGTH - 51 in. (130 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