John Bates founded the Jean Varon label in 1960 and it became known for the futuristic designs that Bates created. By the late sixties and into the seventies his work tended more towards more floaty, feminine designs. Some of the very best pieces were made during this time period and his print dresses are some of my favourites to find.

I have only ever seen one other version of this dress and it was full length so I am not sure if this one was shortened at some point or if it was ordered at this length. Either way it is a gorgeous little dress. It is made out of a light cotton mix voile. The print on it is a pretty soft blue and the fabric has a touch of transparency to it that gives the colour an extra dimension. The dress has a high scooped neck and the front bodice has a bibbed feel created by a center panel that is edged in a black and white braiding. This is also where the dress opens up so that you can get into it and the tightly spaced domed buttons that run down one side and across one shoulder become a beautiful design element. At the back there is the same braiding again. The waist is set slightly high. The sleeves are amazing. Each is very full and sit above a buttoned cuff. I love how the top of cuffs are both accented by more of that black and white cording. Under that the skirt falls to below the knee and is quite full due to the pleating that runs down the center on both sides o the dress. Flat knife pleats act as gathers down the middle of the front and back and also add even more detail to the dress. It is so pretty. Excellent condition with a small note below

Fully lined in an ivory silky rayon and and closes with the buttons up the side of the front and across the shoulder. Each cuff buttons to close. There is a teeny part of the braiding at the back of the neck that has pull out. I can put a stitch to hold it down before it ships. And one button is missing on one cuff. This will sit best on a 0-4 as it is cut small across the chest  (and a small busted 4 at max)

Sleeves: 26"
Shoulders: 14"
Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Midpoint of the bust flat across is 13"
Waist: 13.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 16.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 11.5" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 28.5" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XXS-XS

Item# DD3945

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.