1970s Caroline Charles Cotton Striped Blouse and Skirt Ensemble

This is a late 1970s or early 1980s ensemble by Caroline Charles, a well-known designer on the London circuit who has made beautiful formal wear and fine quality day clothes since the 1960s. This cotton suit is made up of a triple tiered skirt, belt and blouse and reminds of the 'peasant chic' look that Yves Saint Laurent was designing in the late 70s as part of his Ballet Russes collection. The blouse is high-necked with neat puff shoulders and tapered, gathered cuffs. The blouse is not lined whilst the skirt is fully lined in black cotton. The original wide fabric belt is retained, and we would suggest the blouse could be tucked into the skirt but also be fastened over the top and cinched in with the fabric belt.

In very good vintage condition overall; the blouse appears to have been worn more than the skirt, which together with the belt, are in excellent condition. The skirt and blouse are labelled Caroline Charles and marked UK size 10. This is best suited in modern sizing to UK size 6-8, US size 2-4 on account of the waist measurements for the skirt, although the top could be worn by a size bigger.

Notes on Designer:

Caroline Charles began her design career after a couture appenticeship and a stint at Mary Quant. She was a founding designer at London Fashion Week and during the swinging 60s, her collections were worn by Lulu, Marianne Faithful and Cilla Black, as well as suits she made for Mick Jagger and Ringo Starr. She was one of Princess Diana's go-to designers.

MEASUREMENTS:
Top
Bust - 36 in (91.4 cm)
Waist - 35 in (88.9 cm)
Hip - 39 in (99 cm)
Length - 23 in (58.4 cm)
Shoulders - 15 in (38.1 cm)

SKIRT
Waist - 24in (61 cm)
Hip - 46 in (116.8 cm)
Length - 34 in (86.4 cm)