This wonderful Ossie dress features a mix of two of Celia Birtwell's prints. A pretty floral design is mixed with her iconic pineapple print that runs over the entire dress. Both are screened onto a crepe chiffon, a fabric choice that holds the color exceptionally well so it still feels crisp. In the book 'Celia Birtwell', Ceila notes that the pineapple print was: "influenced by '30s day dresses. I like ladylike, small prints, ones worn by women of a certain age." The influence of the thirties is also evident in the cut of the dress. It is cut on the bias and this give the fabric the room to move and drape as Ossie wished. When it is on the body the bias cut gives the dress movement and allows it to move with you. The skirt is constructed from two tiers of fabric that are layered over each other. Each tier flares out to give it a swing feel. I love the contrast of the prints together too. The dress skims up and over the waist, ending at a high set triangle of the opposite print that anchors the plunging bodice. Each shoulder has a keyhole of bare skin exposed with a tie at the top of the shoulder. Adjusting these ties allows you to decide how low on the shoulder it will sit. The back is left entirely open along a long slit that simply ties to close in two places. Excellent condition with one small note to review below.
The inner skirt acts as the lining there and the cups of the bodice are lined in a red silky rayon. It slips on to wear and closes with ties at the shoulders and two more at the back. There are some small tears to the lining of the bodice that do not go through to the exterior. I have photoed the area. All are stable and you see nothing once on. Tagged a vintage Ossie UK 14
Sleeves: approx 15"
Shoulders: no defined seams
Bust: 17-18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: to 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 11" from neck to waist
Skirt: 32" from waist to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD1315
This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.
