This one is pure 1960s confidence. Clean lines, an uncomplicated silhouette, and then that hit of colour at the hem like a little private sunrise you carry through the day.
Made by Jennifer Dean, this authentic vintage mini shift keeps the shape classic with a scoop neckline and sleeveless cut that lets your shoulders and arms do their thing. The fabric has that soft, felted wool feel, giving the dress a beautiful structure without turning stiff. It skims rather than clings, and the gentle A-line makes movement easy.
The showstopper is the bold sunrise appliqué at the lower side, with deep burgundy tones and a bright yellow arc, finished with stitched rays. It is graphic, mod, and surprisingly wearable. The kind of detail that makes people ask, “Where did you find that?” - Make sure you tell them at Painted Bird Vintage!
Fit-wise, this is a dream for anyone who loves a streamlined silhouette that still gives breathing room. It works on a range of proportions because the shape is intentional: tidy at the top, relaxed through the body, and polished all the way down.
Style it and layer with a simple blouse or 'T' underneath adding opaque tights and boots or loafers for weekday sharpness. Or, bare legs and flats when the weather plays nice. Add a cropped jacket, or let it stand alone and do the talking.
This is good fashion with a backstory, and a rare slice of boutique Auckland design history.
Circa: 1940 - 1970
Origin: Consignment
Label: Jennifer Dean Boutique Ltd
Fabric: Wool soft blend
Condition: Excellent commensurate with age and love
Modern Size Indicator*: 8 - 10
Measurement: Bust 38 cm, Waist 36 cm, Hip 46 cm (Laid flat)
Vintage Size Indicator: 12
Fit: Classic shift with gentle A-line skim
Fixture: Original
Care: Dry clean recommended
HISTORY: Jennifer Dean Boutique Ltd (Auckland, New Zealand) was part of the mid-century boutique wave that grew in Auckland during the 1960s, when small local fashion businesses produced short-run garments for a city clientele seeking modern, international-looking style. Boutique labels like this typically offered limited production and more personalised service than department stores, helping shape an early New Zealand designer retail scene before mass import fashion became dominant.. More information about the label can be found at New Zealand Fashion Museum.
NOTE: Sale Items/Damaged Items cannot be exchanged, refunded or returned. Colours may display differently on various devices.
