1980s Caroline Charles Silk Peasant Skirt, Top & Sash

Designer Caroline Charles cut her teeth at Mary Quant before heading out on her own in 1963, and has been designing beautiful and exuberant clothing for decades since. Caroline's work has been described in  The Cutting Edge - 50 Years of British Fashion, as: "Beautifully cut eminently wearable clothes executed in the finest fabrics."  We couldn't agree more as peasant styling never looked better - somewhere between an 18th century princess and serving wench. In an opulent silk taffeta, the colors are regal -alternating stripes of a paisley print in gold, Chinese red and a sliver of sage green, with a  subtle gold pindot on violet.  The top is fitted and waist length, with covered buttons and loops up the front.  Wide neckline with a gathered shoulder and a very full sleeve ends in a gathered ruffle at the forearm. The skirt achieves fullness with an attached net crinoline between the skirt and the lining, and pleating into the waistband. A deep ruffle at the hem echoes the sleeve treatment. Zipper and hook closures in the back.  The sash is nearly 100" long tip to tip, and encircles the waist a couple of times to cinch like a cummerbund.  In excellent condition.  Top measures:  Bust 32"; waist 27";  shoulder 14"; sleeve 23"; length 17".  Skirt waist 24", length 43".  $205