Bernshaw of Mayfair 1960s Green Floral Silk Shift Dress

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This Bernshaw of Mayfair dress moves in pure silk, printed with a garden of teal, sage and butterscotch blooms that seem to shift colour as the light changes. The bodice closes with small front ties at a keyhole opening, meeting an empire seam finished with its own neat bows, before the silk falls into a clean shift line to the knee. A concealed back zip keeps the closure simple, and the sleeveless cut lets the print carry the whole story. Bernshaw traded from London for seventy years before the house closed, and pieces from its earlier decades do not surface often now.

The empire seam sits high and easy, so if you prefer less definition through the middle, this shape skims past it rather than pulling in at the waist. The sleeveless cut suits warmer days and evenings equally well, and the round neckline keeps the tie details as the only focal point up top. Wear it with woven sandals and simple jewellery for daytime, or dress it up with a slim heel and a clutch for evening. A light cardigan or blazer layered over the shoulders takes it easily into a cooler part of the day.

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Circa: 1940 - 1970
Origin: Consignment
Label: Bernshaw of Mayfair, London

Fabric: Silk
Condition: Excellent commensurate with age and care
Care: Dry clean

Modern Size Indicator: 8 - 10
Measurements: Bust 38 cm, Waist 38 cm, Hip 44 cm (laid flat)
Vintage Size Indicator: 38

Fit: Sleeveless shift silhouette skimming the body from the empire seam to the knee
Fixture: Front keyhole ties closure with a concealed back zip
Features: Round neckline, front keyhole tie opening, empire waist seam with a small bows, sleeveless

Designer Information: Bernshaw was a London house founded in 1945, known for its occasion and evening wear. From the 1950s its pieces were carried by Harrods and Selfridges, and in earlier decades it dressed faces including Jean Shrimpton and Twiggy. The label traded for seventy years before closing, making surviving pieces part of a finite slice of British mid century fashion history.

NOTE: For best fit, we recommend comparing measurements with a similar garment you already love. We are always happy to confirm additional details prior to purchase. Sale/Sold Items/Damaged Items cannot be exchanged, refunded or returned. Colours may display differently on various devices.

Our vintage items are rated as follows:
  • Excellent: Near or near to new quality, with no noted flaws and may often be presented in original packaging or, with original tags (deadstock) all commensurate with age and love
  • Very Good: May have some minor issue, as seen or noted
  • Good: Some minor flaws which may be repairable, or may not detract from the garment when worn
  • Rescue: Flaws as described which may or may not detract when worn in most cases possibility of repair

We estimate sizes as current or, 'modern' sizing rather than vintage sizing as eras do vary.

Please take a moment to check if this item will fit!
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Still not sure? Just email us the details of this piece and your measurements, and we can help you check if it will fit before you purchase.

Please take a moment to view our Refund Policy! Under the New Zealand Consumer Guarantees Act, stores providing second-hand or used clothing do not come under the same regulations as newly made clothing. Read our full Refund Policy for Painted Bird, Stylist Services and The Aviary (opens in a new window). We cannot refund or exchange earrings, hair accessories or face masks for hygiene reasons. We also cannot refund or exchange gift cards. Cancellation and 'no-show' appointments made for stylist and fitting room services are also subject to a no refund policy.

Still not sure? We'll gladly hold this item for you for 24 hours while we provide measurements of this item on request. Don't miss out - email us today.