Another elaborate example of romanticism from Gina Fratini, who really perfected this look during the early 1970s as she rose to prominence in the British boutique scene. The mod dress style of the 60s was beginning to wane and full length Victoriana returned for its first fashion come back in a century.

This is a superb example of her flamboyant work, probably mid 1970s, with a tiered mousseline cotton dress with a high neck collar and a lace ruffle trim paired with a sleeveless bolero jacket. The jacket is integral to the dress and is attached at the shoulder seams.

The dress is split into two tiers, one tier with a floral print that finishes just around knee length. The floral spray print is shaped like a bouquet, tied with a double bow and actually has the designer's name attached as a kind of gift card. I've never seen Gina Fratini apply her name to print before. The bottom tier, which reaches to the floor, is an A-line panel of plain white mousseline that is also edged in lace.
The sleeves are gently gathered and have a frill hem whilst it fastens to the rear with the longest tier having the original metal zip. The other two layers are simply fastened with a couple of hook and eyes at the neckline. The print on the capelet is quite abstract looking with a procession of circles in a teal green and pale navy.

An elaborate dress suitable for special occasions; it would make a fantastic alternative wedding dress. Both pieces are is in really super vintage condition with no issues of any note. The muslin has been freshly laundered and it is ready to wear. It will fit sizes up to a UK 8-10 or US 4-6.

NOTES ON DESIGNER:

Gina Fratini was a British designer renowned during the 1970s and early 1980s for her romantic gowns which were of elaborate construction. She was a favourite of many an aristocratic debutante and Princess Diana wore her designs on several state occasions. Elizabeth Taylor famously chose a medieval style Gina Fratini gown for her second marriage to Richard Burton.

MEASUREMENTS
Bust - 34 in. (86.4 cm)
Waist - 26 in. (66 cm)
Hip - 35 in. (88.9 cm)
Length - 57 in. (144.8 cm)
Shoulders - 17 in. (43.2 cm)