1978 Runway Documented Valentino Floral Black Silk Maxi Dress

A very special runway documented Valentino maxi dress from the spring 1978 collection and designed by Mr Garavani a few years after founding his Valentino Boutique line. Tailored from smooth, slightly sheer silk, it is patterned with an incredibly detailed floral print showing lemon yellow, candy pink and apricot orange roses nestled amongst sage green foliage. The print is broken up across the top of the dress by panels of sheer black lace which create a sensuous peekaboo effect. The black lace also trims the skirt in horizontal stripes to the bottom hem. A wide boat-neckline reveals the décolletage and the sleeves are long and cut to a frothy bell shape with lace-trimmed, ruffled cuffs. The dress has a cinched waist and gives way to a full skirt with a slightly longer back hem that sweeps the floor. The dress is unlined and does not require a slip.

The late 1970s was the pinnacle of the 'boho luxe' vibe in fashion and one of Circa's favourite periods in fashion history. Documented pieces from Valentino in this era are rare to market and this dress is in truly excellent vintage condition; looks barely worn and has no issues. Labelled a vintage US size 8 and 100% Silk. It runs smaller; our model is a UK 8-10 or US 4-6, 5'4" or 163 cm, and this was a good fit on her with a little room to spare in most places.

MEASUREMENTS

BUST - 36 in. (91 cm)

WAIST - 28 in. (71 cm)

HIP - 68 in. (173 cm)

LENGTH - 54 in. (137 cm)