Zandra Rhodes Unlabelled Hand Painted Sheer Silk Pearl Edged Dress, 1980s

Most noted for her popularization of the bohemian style, Zandra Rhodes’ success can be attributed to her creation of clothing with as much personality as she has and a keen attention to detail. By crafting garments with unique patterns and hand painting them onto fine silks, Rhodes has built a legacy of fashion that is both exciting and elegant.

Done in a pale-yellow sheer silk, this circa 1985 dress has an abstract underwater motif in grey and a muted bubblegum pink. At the neck, a unique zig-zag neckline embellished with rhinestones and beads mimics the geometric motif that frames the upper body from shoulder to waist. A thin strap secures the neckline detail and lays nicely against the body.

Rhinestones decorate the would-be princess lines as the dress falls into a column silhouette and straight sleeves end in zig-zagged hemlines edged in tiny pearls. The sewing techniques and decorative features reflect that of vintage lingerie yet done in a wearable fashion. This dress is perfect for a day out or can be lightly accessorized for an evening or cocktail affair.

Size estimate: Medium

Shoulders: 16 inches

Sleeves: 23 inches

Bust: 36 inches

Waist: 38 inches

Hips: 38 inches

Length: 49-51 inches

At either side, there are 21-inch slits from the hem.

The dress secures with the tie at centre back creating a moderate keyhole. Unlined, this dress is in excellent condition, however it unfortunately lost the label while being 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.