Alice Pollock, Celia Birtwell and Ossie Clark are all intertwined. Alice and Celia founded the Quorum boutique in 1964 and Ossie designed for Quorum and Alice even while he was a student at the Royal College of Art. She began featuring Ossie's work in 1965 and he designed for the label until 1973. His designs can appear with the Pollock label, the Quorom label or under his own label and with the Quorum label attached as well. This is most certainly one of his - it is made from his signature moss crepe and this is a version of the "Harlequin" dress that resides in the collection of the FDIM. Stripes were a predominant detail in his early collections and here he uses them to create shape and flow. The collar is cut long and pointed and tops a V front bodice. The sleeves are very full and each has those same, delicious striping detail and are cut to billow out above long, buttoned black cuffs. Small gathers sit below each shoulder detail and then dress flows to the floor in a sweep of bias cut fabric. When the striped panels begin the skirt opens to tremendous fullness seen best when you move in the dress. It is fabulous and even better on. Excellent condition
Unlined and closes with a side set zipper. Each cuff buttons to close with fabric covered buttons and loops. Two of the buttons show some wear and the fabric is thinning/tearing along the button edges. There is an extra button inside. Teeny areas of very faint foxing along the hem but this does not show when on or deter and is only mentioned for accuracy. Tagged a UK vintage 12
Sleeves: 29" but come up when on of course
Shoulders: 16"
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 56" from neck to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD2461
Reference Photo: Ossie Clark with print by Celia Birtwell Maxi Dress c. 1969 at the FIDM Museum Collection.
This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.
