Polka Dot Maxi Dress 1970s
Polka Dot Maxi Dress 1970s
Romantic Flounces and Polka Dots!
This is an amazing 1960s/70s maxi dress by the reknowned and sought after British designer Gina Frattini. It is an absolutely stunning and rare statement dress.
It features
- main fabrics which are semi sheer voile 100% cotton white with navy polka dots. One a larger print than the other
- the dress is in the small polka dot fabric and has a 'V' neckline
- the main dress is sleeveless and has an 'Empire line' bodice with a 2"panel below the bust
- the main dress is full lined in an acetate type fabric
- the skirt of the dress has two deep frills to the hem in the larger polka dot print
- the bodice carries frilled fan sleeves which are set over the shoulders and down the back of the bodice back with a frill and with a further frill to the edge of the sleeves. Overall the soft folds of the bias cut fan sleeves give a cape like appearance (higher at the front and lower at the back
- long ties in the small print are set in the back from the edge of the sleeve frill which tie at the back
- an original metal long back zip from the neck to below the waist, hook and eye at neckline
- The dress has been, and can be, handwashed with care despite the label stating dry clean only
The dress is in excellent condition apart from:
- a very tiny pull to the fabric of the left sleeve (see last photo) which can hardly be noticed in the folds of the sleeve
- slight markIng on one section of the bottom frill to the front hem (see penultimate photo). Again it is not that visible in the folds of the frill
- Two small frays to the edge of the zip placket (in the lining) see photo. This is where the zip has has in the past caught on the placket and damaged the edges. Does not detract from the dress.
Approximate current size: UK size 6
Original vintage size (per label):no label
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.
Measurements (all laid flat):
Bust 32"
Under bust panel approx 28"
Waist 26/27" approx (due to falling from bust)
Hips up to 36/38" approx (due to falling from bust)
Across shoulders (outer edge seam to seam) 15.5"
Centre back to bottom of underbust panel 12.5"
Dress length (centre back to hem) 55"