Zandra Rhodes Field of Lilies Maxi Caftan Dress, 1970s

Zandra Rhodes’ designs verge on the ethereal and the eclectic. Her loosely fitting caftan style dresses in the 1970s paid homage to a more international aesthetic while adding in her own element of play to the designs, particularly through the creation of her own fabrics. In the early 1970s Rhodes debuted her Field of Lilies prints that would later become one of her seminal fabric designs.

From this line, this circa 1973 maxi dress is done in a pink ombre synthetic silk satin. The dress is suspended from the shoulders and around the arms with dainty spaghetti straps as the neckline is edged with a scalloped lace detail. This design odes to the ancient Grecian chiton silhouette.

The bodice billows into a drawstring waist allowing for a relaxed and comfortable fit that feels cool and smooth against the body. From there, the skirt transitions into a deeper pink color and features inversions of Rhodes’ lily design in beachy shades of turquoise and navy. Originally designed as a nightgown, this maxi dress can easily be styled as a day dress, as a lighthearted evening option, or as a resort dress.

Size estimate: S/M/L

Bust: Open

Waist: 25 - 40 inches

Hips: Open

Length: 61 inches

The drawstring and the loose chiton style, this dress is able to accommodate a variety of sizes. Unlined, this dress is in excellent condition and has been professionally eco dry cleaned and pressed. High-quality vintage pieces like this are yours to live in and love while increasing in value every year. It’s never too soon to start collecting them, as an investment in your wardrobe—and in yourself.