1975 Jean Muir Runway Documented Rainbow Floral Chiffon Layered Dress
Designed during Jean Muir's most celebrated period in the 1970s, this rare, runway-documented floral silk chiffon dress is a superb example of her effortless, feminine approach to occasion dressing. We were delighted to discover the identical print featured in a Spring 1975 editorial campaign starring Joanna Lumley, one of Muir's favourite models who was wearing another dress from the collection. Cut from lightweight silk chiffon, the dress is printed with stylised flowers in vivid shades of violet, orange, lime green, red, cobalt blue and peach against a black ground. Contrasting orange topstitching around the hems and cuffs adds subtle definition throughout and was something of a signature for Muir. The design creates the illusion of a separate blouse and skirt. The blouson-style bodice has a wide ruffled neckline and long bell sleeves finished with buttoned cuffs, each fastened with a distinctive teal toggle button. Beneath sits a slate blue slip dress, overlaid from the empire line with a flowing floral chiffon skirt that falls to the ankle. The dress fastens at the back with a silver-tone metal zip and a matching teal toggle button. The dress is in truly excellent vintage condition with no notable flaws. Circa acquired it directly from the original owner, who purchased it as her going-away outfit, adding exceptional provenance. It is made from 100% silk and is labelled a UK 12 (US 8). The fabric has no stretch and the fit is smaller by modern standards. We recommend it for approximately a UK 8–10 (US 4–6), with generous room through the hips. Please refer to the sizing information below to ensure the best fit. Notes on Designer: By the mid-1970s, Jean Muir had established herself as one of Britain's most influential fashion designers, renowned for her refined tailoring, fluid silhouettes and exceptional craftsmanship. Her discreet, understated style attracted an exceptionally loyal clientele that included Joanna Lumley, Lauren Bacall, Charlotte Rampling, Maggie Smith, Judi Dench, Julie Walters, Joan Plowright, Patricia Hodge, Dr Miriam Stoppard and Princess Margaret. Her menswear was equally admired, with commissions for Mick Jagger, Paul McCartney and George Harrison. Today, Jean Muir's work is represented in major museum collections, including the Victoria and Albert Museum, and remains highly prized by collectors for its enduring design and quality. MEASUREMENTS BUST - 34 in. (86 cm) WAIST - 28 in. (71 cm) HIP - 48 in. (122 cm) LENGTH - 48 in. (122 cm)