1960s Lachasse Bee Pattern Silk Dress

A 1960s silk bee print dress by none other than Lachasse, one of the oldest British couture houses having opened in 1926, it sadly closed its doors in 2006. The dress is entirely handmade and was made in the same tradition as haute couture fashion from the ateliers in Paris. Nearly all of Lachasse's clients were wealthy titled ladies, including royality and socialites. It is lined in mustard silk and the colours are turquoise, lilac, pale lilac and shocking pink. The dress has a high scoop neck with a fixed tie and princess cut seams. The front hem is arranged in seamed fan-like panels giving the dress fluidity of movement. It fastens to the rear with a concealed zip which is original to the dress as well as hooks and eyes. The cuffs on the long sleeves have small zips around 10 centimetres long.

The condition of the dress is very good - very fresh looking and the silk has retained all its lustre. On close inspection there are one or two very small water marks which are well hidden in the busy print and are difficult to see unless inspecting very closely. This piece will improve further with each dry cleaning. There are also one or two stressed areas on the underside forarm seams on the sleeves. This is minor in nature and they cannot be seen when worn. Will best fit US 6-8, UK size 10-12. Our model is a UK 8-10 and 5ft 11in. (180cm), this dress was roomy on her. 

MEASUREMENTS:
BUST - 46 in. (116.8 cm)
WAIST - 35 in. (88.9 cm)
HIP - 40 in. (101.6 cm)
LENGTH - 47 in. (119.4 cm)
SHOULDERS - 14 in. (35.6 cm)