Young Sophisticates Watercolour Rose Cape Sleeve Dress

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This dress carries one of those soft watercolour florals that feels almost  painted rather than printed, roses in blush pink and lilac drifting across a grey ground. The neckline gathers into a self-fabric tie at the front, the cape sleeves flutter loose from the shoulder, and the waist is elasticated at the back with a long matching sash that wraps and ties for shaping. Below the waist the skirt falls into a tiered, ruffled hem that gives movement as you walk. Made in New Zealand under the Young Sophisticates label by T.G. Southwell and Co, a well known Auckland fashion house through the mid to late twentieth century, this dress carries a romantic flowing silhouette.

Let the sash do the shaping and keep the rest simple, drop earrings or nothing at all, the print carries plenty on its own. If you like softness rather than structure through the waist, the wrap tie here lets you adjust the fit to what feels right on the day. Sandals or low heels both work, depending on whether you're headed somewhere relaxed or a little dressier.

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Circa: 1970 - 2000
Origin: Consignment
Label: Young Sophisticates by Southwell

Fabric: Easy Care (Poly/Nylon/Acrylic/Acetate) blend
Condition: Excellent condition commensurate with age and love
Care: Hand wash cold water

Modern Size Indicator: 10 - 12
Measurements: Bust 44 cm, Waist 28 cm (unstretched), Hip 60 cm (laid flat)
Vintage Size Indicator: 14

Fit: Relaxed through the bodice with an elasticated waistband and an adjustable wrap tie waist
Fixture: Front tie neckline with a self-fabric drawstring closure; wrap tie waist sash
Features: Cape sleeves, tiered ruffled hem, watercolour floral print

About the Designer: Young Sophisticates was one of several labels produced under licence by T.G. Southwell and Co Ltd, a long running Auckland fashion house operated by Travers Southwell from the 1950s until 1986, with designs largely credited to Alma Kimber. Southwell labels were sold through department stores across New Zealand, including Milne and Choyce.

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!
View our Sizing Chart (opens in a new window).

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.