1970s Catherine Buckley Patchwork Cream Skirt and Jacket
Description
British designer Catherine Buckley founded her brand in 1963 and went on to open her first shop in Notting Hill, London. Her romantic designs drew on historic references and found an audience among fashion fans and celebrities alike. This boho lux cream skirt suit was created for Buckley’s Fragile collection. To create this line, the designer used fabric samples, known as “strike-offs”, that dated from 1903-1937; jacquard nets in cotton, silk, chenille and viscose that were originally to be used as wall-hangings or curtains and that were woven with colourful, outlandish patterns. Patchworked across whimsical 1970s silhouettes, these garments went on to be stocked at Fortnum & Mason and written about in Cosmopolitan magazine in 1974.
This collectable ensemble is composed of a jacket and maxi-length skirt. Cut in an A-line shape, the skirt is full and kicks out around the wearer as they walk. It sits high on the waist and is lined with cream satin. It is secured with a hidden tonal zip at the rear. The exceptional jacket is tailored to a formal, button-up style. It has an elegant high-collar and is fastened with a multitude of small fabric-covered buttons and fabric loops. The bottom of the jacket hangs open and flares outwards around the hips, ending with a pretty scallop hem. The angel-sleeves, with their split cuffs and scallop hems, mirror this silhouette. Crafted from a patchwork of antique lace jacquards, the detail across both of these pieces is stunning up close. Lace detailed with elaborate geometric forms and botanical designs in vibrant hues are contrasted against each other, united by a uniform cream background. This jacket is fully lined with cream satin.
This memorable ensemble is in excellent vintage condition with no flaws of any note and is clean and ready to wear. Due to its age, this piece doesn't have a composition label, however the brand label reads, “This garment is made from a jacquard material oven between 1905 - 1953. Because of its age please handle with great care”. This dress is labelled a size UK 12, but vintage sizes vary hugely so please check the measurements below closely. We think it better suited to a UK size 10 or US 6 and smaller.
MEASUREMENTS JACKET
BUST - 36 in. (91 cm)
WAIST - 30 in. (76 cm)
HIP - 38 in. (97 cm)
LENGTH - 25 in. (64 cm)
SHOULDERS - 17 in. (43 cm)
MEASUREMENTS SKIRT
WAIST - 27 in. (69 cm)
HIP - 42 in. (107 cm)
LENGTH - 44 in. (112 cm)
