Silk and Swagger - Chanticleer - True Vintage

This is one of those vintage wedding outfits that makes me wish I had the original Chanticleer catalogue sitting on my desk.

Made in England from pure silk, this fabulous two-piece combines a beautifully constructed corset bodice with a separate full skirt. The sweetheart neckline corset has a deep pointed basque waist and is heavily boned to create that wonderfully defined shape.

Across the neckline, folds of silk sweep into a fabulous oversized bow at the centre front, while the back is finished with 15 silk-covered buttons and rouleau loops - proper couture silk ones - not a cheaper elastic version!

Then there's the skirt. It has an unusual apron-style front, before sweeping away into a generous train at the back. Together, the two pieces create a wonderfully theatrical silhouette that feels very much at home in British bridal fashion of the late1990s/early 2000s. 

Chanticleer was an English bridal house based in Cheltenham, known for silk wedding gowns handmade in England. Designer Tracey Salt joined the company after graduating in 1991 and later took over the business from its previous owner.

When this gown arrived with me, there was little evdidence of it ever having been worn. It's a size 10/12 - there is room to let the skirt out using the original waist band and it has substantial seam allowances in the side seams of the bodice to allow it to be let out by at least one more size. 

This dress is in excellent condition - but it does have a couple of very small (mm not cm) marks - see last photo.

Available to try on in the Aberdeen salon or buy online with worldwide shipping.