John Bates founded the Jean Varon label in 1959 and it became known for the futuristic designs that Bates created. By the late sixties and into the seventies his work tended more towards more floaty, feminine designs. Some of the very best pieces were made during this time period and his caftans and caftan dresses are particularly lovely.

This is one of those caftan dresses that he did so very well. This one is made from two layers of a beautifully printed chiffon. The print is a leaf and flower design that is set on a deep blue background. Layered onto that are a green and a taupe that make up the pretty design that you see. Everything about this piece feels pretty and romantic. The under dress is a long sheath that gradually widens as it reaches the hem. The printed chiffon on this layer flows over a solid lining to give it a touch of structure. Over that inner layer is a second panel of fabric that is set to flow down from the shoulders and floats over the interior dress. It ends in a point and falls cape-like over the arms. The neckline is rounded and under the top chiffon layer the inner dress is sleeveless. I love how you get this sense of depth from the pattern on each layer floating over each other. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a blue silky rayon and closes with a back metal and nylon zipper. The top layer ties at the back of the neck.

Inner bust: to 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 24" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 56" from shoulder to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD3513

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.