1960s Blanes Floral Cotton Dress with Belt Design

Blanes was a well regarded London ready to wear house that was in operation from the 1940s to the late 1960s. The clothes were very well made and retailed in some of the top department stores of the day. This vivacious gown was designed in the late 1950s or early 1960s. Crafted from polished cotton, it is the print and the attention-to-detail of the tailoring that really make this piece stand out and make this label much sought-after in the vintage world. The print is made up of bright yellow and orange hued flowers set against an abstract background splashed with sketchy florals in white, brown and terracotta. Cut to a flattering boat-neck shape, it has elegant three-quarter length sleeves and a full, softly pleated skirt. The front of the nipped-in waist features a stunning wide belt in coordinating floral cotton with a large rectangular fabric-covered buckle. The gown is secured at the back with a hidden white zip and hook-and-eye clasp. The hem at the neckline and waistband of this feature pretty piping in the same cloth. The skirt is lined with stiff cotton which adds volume.

Presented in truly excellent vintage condition; this dress has no flaws of any note and looks barely worn. It is made from pure cotton. The size label states UK 16 but vintage sizes run small, and we suggest the modern equivalent is a generous 10-12 or US 6-8.

MEASUREMENTS:

BUST: 38 in. (97 cm)

WAIST: 29 in. (74 cm)

HIP: 50 in. (127 cm)

LENGTH: 44 in. (112 cm)

SLEEVE: 19 in. (48 cm)