Zandra Rhodes is one of my favorite designers and it is always a treat to have one of her pieces for you. This print matches pieces from the Spring 1988 collection entitles the 'Fantastic Flower Garden' which featured little flowers set within curved lines in the backdrop and little crosses on the petals of the flowers.
This is a very wearable, gorgeous piece that can go for a fancier day piece to cocktail wear with ease. The fabric is her signature hand painted silk chiffon and this one is done in a flattering deep red with a charcoal print. This lies over a silk satin interior that feels wonderful when on the body. The dress has an asymmetrical hem and panels of fabric that are sewn on in tiers and on the bias to create a floating feel around you. They are set like a softer version of a handkerchief hem. This gives the dress a lot of movement. It is cut to skim over the body with a loose and easy waist and then the skirt flares out. The bodice has just a touch of detailing to highlight some of the floral prints with hand applied sequin paillettes and pretty faux pearls. The sleeves are left unlined and have that same panelled floating technique used on hem of the skirt so that they are light and airy feeling as well. It comes with a matching extra long sash that can be tied around the waist like I have done or you can wrap it around the neck or even tie it like a turban around you head. It is lovely and highly collectible. Excellent condition
The dress is fully lined in red, light silk satin and it closes with a back zipper. The bead and sequin work detailing are hand applied. Comes with a long wide sash and there are several pieces of matching fabric that came with it. This dress may have been a custom order and I think these are fabric swatches sent in advance of the actual making of the dress. It looks to have been worn very little if at all.
Shoulders: 14.5
Bust: 17" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Length: 45" from shoulder to longest points on the hem
Sash: 17" wide x 102" long
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD3507
This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.