1975 Thea Porter Couture Documented Bohemian Patchwork Silk Abaya Caftan Dress

Gorgeous Thea Porter Couture bohemian abaya caftan dating back to the mid 1970's. This rare garment is fashioned in the most beautiful blue patterned silk chiffon (print possibly by Michael Szell) with colorful Damascus brocade patchwork. This silhouette became a commercial success due to the ability to hide the body beneath billowing folds, with transparent fabrics hinting subtly at the seductive female form. I love the front key-hole opening and metallic gold piping throughout. Thea Porter was largely inspired by fashion from the Victorian and Renaissance eras. This is easily identifiable by her use of luxurious textiles and layered construction. During the early 1970's, her clothing attracted many celebrity customers who enjoyed wearing her erotic, yet comfortable, creations whose secret was to conceal rather than reveal. She admits her fashions were created in that particular style as she had "…always felt very envious of Arab women because they can hide behind their clothes, it is a very protected and secure way to feel." Admitting that some of her creations were far removed from anything an Arab woman would wear she said that she felt "It’s important that the end result should be my own romantic fantasies." This garment is truly unique and a rare piece of fashion history.

Measurements (Can fit a range of sizes due to style)
Bust: Free
Hips: Free
Total Length: 58 inches

This Thea Porter Couture abaya is in excellent condition with no rips, holes or alternations. All hand finished. A similar version from the Lauren Lepire collection is featured in the book "Thea Porter: Bohemian Chic" by Laura McLaws Helms and Venetia Porter. Highly wearable and an investment piece that will continue to increase in value.