1960s John Cavanagh Black Lace and Velvet Couture Cocktail Dress

This incredible 1960s black lace and velvet cocktail dress is couture from British designer John Cavanagh, who was renowned for his understated, elegant designs and often created pieces for the Royals during this period. The dress is comprised of back lace netting underlain with soft ivory toned net to enhance the baroque style design. The fabric of the dress attaches briefly to the velvet straps, gathering them into a scoop neckline with velvet echoed on the side-set ruched waistband. The construction of this piece is exceptional and features detailed corseting through the silk lined bodice and structured cups to support the bust. The mid calf length skirt is straight at the front, then skillfully gathered at the reverse below the waistband into soft pleats with additional bustle style netting positioned beneath. There is a black silk petticoat slip reinforced at the hem with lace and a central zip fastening at the reverse consolidated at the base of the spine in a velvet bow. This rare and incredible piece is sexy, sophisticated and in excellent vintage condition. Would best suit a petite US size 0-2, UK size 6. Our model is a UK 6-8 and 5ft 4in (163cm) and this dress fit her well. 

MEASUREMENTS:
BUST - 31.5 in. (80.01 cm)
WAIST - 24 in. (60.96 cm)
HIP - 32 in. (81.28 cm)
LENGTH - 48 in. (121.92 cm)