This dress is unusual on two fronts. While researching another dress in our collection we were stricken by how much this dress emulates the Ra Ra designs that walked the catwalk for the Chanel Spring/Summer 1988 collection. It has an almost identical print, with roses in very striking primary colours against a striped monochrome background. The dress has a wide, elasticated scoop neck with elasticated cap sleeves and there is a very elongated black tight-knit ribbed torso that ends in a short circular skirt. The dress is labelled a size small and is made from 100% cotton, UK made. The design label is not present but this is clearly a High Street version of a runway trend, much like the many fast fashion chains that take inspiration from the runway in the modern era. We were excited to see an earlier piece replicating that same business model in the 80s. Given how inspired the dress is to the Chanel runway show of 1988, we have assumed that this was manufactured during the same year.

Google "Chanel Spring Summer Pret-a-Porter 1988 Floral Camelia Print Dress" to see how similar this piece is!

It's in really great vintage condition and looks barely worn with on issues. Although it's not a designer piece it's an interesting little bit of history and a great dress to boot. Due to the stretch, it will accommodate sizes up to a UK 8-10 or US 4-6. Our model is a UK 8-10 and 5ft 11in. (180cm) and this dress fit her well. 


MEASUREMENTS
Bust - 30 in. (76.2 cm)
Waist - 26 in. (66 cm)
Hip - 31 in. (78.7 cm)
Length - 33.5 in. (85.1 cm)
Shoulders - 18 in. (45.7 cm)