1 13

Catherine Smith Vintage

Rare Biba 1960s/70s Black Polka Dot Maxi Dress with Dramatic Bell Sleeves

Rare Biba 1960s/70s Black Polka Dot Maxi Dress with Dramatic Bell Sleeves

£450.00
£450.00
Sale Sold out
Taxes included. Shipping calculated at checkout.
Own a genuine piece of fashion history!
This rare, authentic late 1960s early 1970s Biba maxi dress perfectly captures the dark, romantic glamour of Barbara Hulanicki’s legendary London boutique.
Featuring the iconic woven gold-and-black 'fat Biba' logo label, this collector's piece is a dream come true for vintage enthusiasts. It signifies the piece dates to between 1968 and 1971.
Crafted with Biba's signature moody aesthetic, the dress showcases a timeless white/off white polka dot print against fluid black fabric.
It is beautifully tailored with a figure-skimming bias cut that creates a stunning silhouette. The real showstoppers are the exaggerated, dramatic bell sleeves that drape beautifully and bring instant retro drama to every movement.
It has a flattering V-neck with a long metal zip down the back.
* Please note that the images of the item on models are AI generated and are given to show how it might look when worn. The fine detail may not always be identical to the item being offered. So please refer to the other images as well to obtain the actual definitive view.
In very good vintage condition with minimal signs of wear consistent with age. However:
  • It has repairs to a small hole near the lower edge of the skirt. See image. This minor repair is completely lost in the fluid folds of the skirt and is unnoticeable when worn.
  • Dotted around the skirt section of the skirt are tiny patches of what appears to be thinning of the fabric. This is commensurate with age and these are not visible on the outer surface of the fabric 
  • There are two small catches at the back of the dress near the bottom of the zip. These may have been caused by fabric being catchy in the zip at some point. However they are barely noticeable. See image 
We believe it is likely made of a lightweight, fluid vintage crepe/viscose/rayon blend with beautiful movement Due to the delicate nature of authentic vintage textiles and to preserve the heritage fabric and label, we highly recommend professional dry clean only to preserve the heritage fabric and label.
It carries an original Size 12 label which we estimate equates to a current UK Size 8/10. It is shown on a UK Size 8 mannequin. However please see exact measurements below.
Measurements (laid flat)
Bust (armpit to armpit) 36ins

Waist: 34ins

Hips: 42ins
Width Across Shoulders (Top Centre Shoulder Seam to Top Centre Shoulder Seam) 13.5ins

Total Dress Length: (Nape of neck to hem) 53ins
Back Zip 21.5ins
Inner Sleeve Length (armpit to cuff hem on inner seam) 18ins
Outer Sleeve Length (centre top shoulder seam to cuff hem) 29ins

Why It’s an Investment
Original  Biba garments from this era are increasingly hard to find in such wearable condition. Whether you are a vintage archivist, a fashion collector, or looking for an unforgettable statement piece for a festival or formal event, this dress offers a rare glimpse into the golden age of London boutique culture.

original 'fat Biba' maxi dress from the 60s/70s.

Complete with its original woven gold-and-black Art Deco Biba label and a vintage size tag still intact, this rare archival piece is a dream find for fashion historians and vintage collectors alike.

Own a wearable, stylish sought after original from the iconic Biba label founded by Barbara Hulaniki.

 

View full details