This is a rare and amazing hand painted silk caftan gown by the great Zandra Rhodes from her 1976 collection Cactus and Cowboys. It is constructed of a fine silk chiffon that is entirely hand painted. The top is cut loose and full and dips dramatically low in the front and hand applied enamel flower sequins adorn the front. The waist is a gathered elastic band and that flows to the floor over a separate inner skirting. The print is entirely done by hand and inspired by Zandra's trip to Colorado in 1975. She did her entire collection based on Cactus's and cowboys. This is the Cactus Everywhere print. I love the dramatic butterfly sleeves! Examples of this print reside in major museums and it is an important, desired piece for collectors. It has some small flaws that I detail below bit present perfectly and is wearable. Overall excellent condition for such a collectible and rare item.
Fully lined in silk chiffon through the bodice and a white silk though the skirt. The dress has an elastic waist and slips on to wear. There is a well done repair to the fabric in the skirt about 8 inches down from the waist - super size to see please. There is another repair along the hem on the right side - there is tons of fabric here so it is concealed very well but it does dip up just a touch here if you see it laying flat. On the inside lining there are some minor tears but this is not seen when on. In the photos you will see a couple of the flowers missing from the front. I will steal a couple form the back and replace the front ones so its perfect before sending! No label inside the dress
Sleeves: approx 24"
Shoulders: dropped and 18" across
Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam the inside
Waist: 12-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips:open
Bodice: 13" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 46" from waist to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML
Item# DD1576
This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.
