Zandra
Rhodes is an Artist first, then a Clothing Designer.
She designs and prints her own fabrics, and the style of
the dress is determined by the print of the fabric.
This dress is made from a wonderful curving,
semi-circular print. The shape of the flowing open
sleeves, and the long full skirt is a natural
progression from the fabric design.
Rhodes
began designing on her own in 1970 and was successful
almost immediately, selling her clothes to such
exclusive stores as Henri Bendel in New York and Fortnum
& Mason in London. Cecil Beaton chose her clothes for a
retrospective at the Victoria & Albert Museum in 1973.
This is an
example of her early work. The original owner was an
acquaintance of Ms. Rhodes in the 1970's. The pattern
is composed of squiggly lines and abstract flowers in
shades of peach, coral, umber and brown on pale blue
chiffon. The bodice lining is pale blue chiffon and the
skirt is lined in a darker blue satin.
The bodice
has a plunging neckline accented by pale blue corset
lacings, floral shaped sequins, and a pleated ruffle
edging. The sleeves are full and flowing, open to the
waistline. The gathered, elasticized waistband is
slightly raised in front for an Empire line, and the
skirt is softly draped.
There is
no label, but this is unmistakably a Zandra Rhodes
creation, with the Provenance as well. This dress is in
pristine condition.
Measurements:
Bust Open
Waist 26"
unstretched
Hips 44"
Neck to
Waist 16"
Waist to
Hem 41"
