Mary Quant become famous for her mini dresses in the 1960s, with some even attribute her as inventing them, though she always maintained that she took the style from the girls on the street and popularized it. The second label in this dress from Olgilvy's and the color of the Quant label are both clues that this is an early Quant piece. It is interesting to note that Olgilvy's was noted as being the first shop in Canada to bring in the "Chelsea Street look" that was so prominent with the youth movement of the time.
The dress is made of a mix of two colored wool fabrics - a black and a deep forest green. This fabric choice really holds the sculpted A-line shape perfectly. It is cut in a sleek little mini dress with that perfect British Mod feel that Quant as known for. The dress is meant to define and highlight the shape of the dress, rather then the body under it. The neck is scooped and the entire top portion of the bodice is a deep green. The skirt is black and cut in a gradual widening at the hem and slits up each side. It lands just above the knee but the slits give it the feel of a true mini as you walk and I suspect these were sold like this so the client could shorten as low as they dared. I love the two little flap decorations at the waist that give it a little extra detailing and an interesting line at the waist seam. Excellent condition.
Unlined and closes with a back zipper. The flaps pockets are decorative only. The slits up each side are 14" high from the hem up
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 16.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 15" from natural neck to waist
Skirt: 24.5" from waist to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD2914
This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.