Boho Prarie dress 1970s

Boho Gina Fratini maxi dress!

Two pretty and contrasting fabrics are used is this dress's design. It is a rare example of sought after designer Gina Fratini's work and your chance to own one!

Trimmed with lace and featuring a high 'Victoriana' neckline, faux frilled bib with 5 shell buttons, a frilled hem, puffed sleeves and a separate long reversible fabric waistbelt designed to tie at the back, whats not to love?

It dates to 1971 (we have an image of the original owner wearing it for her 21st!)

The identical fabrics appear to be heavy weight cotton or cotton mix and are of fine quality. In the same subtle colourway one is striped and one is floral.

It has an original long metal back zip and hook and eye at the nape of the neck above the zip.

The dress is in excellent condition.

 Fashion History Snapshot

The British designer Gina Fratini set up her business in 1964. Underfunded she  improvised by working from home buying any fabrics she thought interesting or amusing, especially prints on thin cottons and silks, adding ribbons and lace. Fratini used significant yardage and cut on the bias, a technique then out of style. Hence she was seldom copied by the rag trade as her pricey originals were difficult and expensive to copy.

Her designs were very romantic incorporating frill and flounces and soft flowing whimsical details. Royalty and celebrities were amongst her clients and today her pieces are hard to find and hence very sought after.

Approximate current size: 10/12

Original vintage size (per label): 14

Measurements (all laid flat):

Bust 34"

Waist 28"

Hips 34/36 (bias cut so some give)

Sleeves cuff width 5" (10" round)

Across shoulders (outer edge seam to seam) 14"

Centre back to waist 16"

Skirt length (waist to hem) 40"

Dress length (centre back to hem )56"