1970s Koos Van den Akker floral smock dress. This is a pretty and detailed design from the famous Dutch designer after he moved to NYC in 1968 from The Hague, Netherlands. He was renowned for his textile work and came to the attention of the House of Dior where he was selected for a three year apprenticeship in 1963. This early exposure to Haute Couture and fabric selection influenced all of his work for the rest of his career and he was particularly adept at mixing and matching prints. Koos, passed away in 2015 after a successful 50 year career. His celebrity clients were fashion icons including Elizabeth Taylor, Cher, Lauren Hutton, Brooke Shields, Isabella Rossellini and Glenn Close to name but a few.

Crafted from a stunning floral man-made chiffon, the fabric sets vibrant fuchsia, yellow and pale blue flowers and rich green foliage against an inky black background. The dress is sheer which softens the drama of the print and lends a romantic, whimsical feel to it. The silhouette is so of the era; frothy bell-sleeves and a floaty mid-length skirt are cinched in by intricate, elasticated smocking across the waistband and cuffs. The open neck and tie collar add a laid-back feel and recalls the neckline on tunics and kaftans - also so popular during this time. This dress is put on by pulling over the head. It is unlined.

In excellent vintage condition with no flaws of any note. Because of its billowing tailoring, this dress could fit up to a size UK 14, US 10 and is fairly true to size in our opinion.

MEASUREMENTS

BUST - 44 in. (112 cm)

WAIST - 36 in. (91 cm)

HIP - 50 in. (127 cm)

LENGTH - 45 in. (114 cm)