A chic two piece set from the early 1960s, beautifully made by Blanes of London. Highlight features are the subtle metallic weave and the real rabbit fur cuffs. The top has an elegant drape with free shoulders, dolman-like sleeves and a nipped waist. It opens fully at the back with a full row of self-fabric covered buttons. The skirt is a simple pencil shape ending just below the knee and has a pleat at skirt hem centre back for ease of movement. There is a metal zip with two hook and eyes to close the skirt at the side. The fabric is a cream wool and synthetic blend knit that is woven with metallic silver thread and both the top and skirt are fully lined with a semi-sheer slightly stiff synthetic fabric lining. Two extra buttons are provided in a paper pocket.
Blanes of London were a small clothing company that made quality ready to wear day and evening wear for the middle-classes from the 1940s. Their success grew in the 1950s but Blanes declined in popularity in the 1960s as they could not compete with newer mass produced brands. Blanes also sold a dress in a similar style with metallic fabric and fur trim.
This set once belonged to fashionista and intrepid traveller, the late Stella Veitch. Stella was known for her taste for well made, fashionable clothing and her independence as a single woman travelling the globe during a time when it was uncommon for women to do so. We love this suit and the story it tells, imagining it neatly folded in a suitcase journeying through 1960s Africa and the Middle East.
Fits like modern size XS
Measurements (lying flat):
Top
Shoulder to shoulder 39cm
Underarm to underarm 48cm
Waist 35cm
Shoulder to hem 42cm
Arms Eye c. 22cm
Sleeve length 26cm
Skirt
Waist 32.5cm
Hips 48-49cm
Length 69cm
Label: Blanes London, on top. “Size 14” on top and “Size 38” on skirt
Provenance: Special collection of Stella Veitch, sourced from N.Z.
Condition: Very good- age spots on inside lining top and skirt and small rust mark on front top near waist. A few scattered moth holes throughout the top layer of fabric which are barely visible when worn. The skirt fabric has a slight slump in it above the front hem and is sometimes visible depending on its drape (see photos). The fabric of the bottom button is worn but this set comes with two spare buttons in a paper pouch you can replace it with.
