At Bella Figura we love 1940s and 1950s shapes and silhouettes that show the female figure at it’s very best. We offer a range of vintage-inspired clothing from quality suppliers including Collectif, The Seamstress of Bloomsbury, Hell Bunny and The House of Foxy alongside our own very special made-to-measure dresses.
Our Dresses
Our handmade dresses are based on original Vintage Vogue and Butterick patterns, which are not only flattering but also really fun and comfortable to wear. We specialise in high quality cotton prints that are machine washable and easy to care for, meaning you’ll have a robust dress that looks authentic but will stand the test of modern living. If you’re looking for beautiful prints and a couture fit, created right here in the UK, then we’re the girls for you!
When you visit our shop we have a sample rail of lovely dresses to try on for size. You can then mix and match your favourite top and skirt styles and choose a fabric from the wide selection in our workroom. We make a note of any adjustments needed and then create your unique dress. The lead time for our signature styles is around six weeks and we take a £50 deposit on ordering to cover fabric costs.
Vintage Dress Designs
‘Portofino’
1950s dress
Prices start from £120
This clever design from 1953 gives you two looks for the price of one as you can wear it as a halterneck or tie the straps in a bow at the front for a cute strapless dress. The bodice is boned for a superb fit and the circle skirt is full enough to wear with a petticoat for a more glamorous look.
‘Sorrento’
1950s dress
Prices start from £120
This versatile tea dress design from 1956 is a gorgeous classic shape reminiscent of Dior and can be adapted to have capped or bracelet length sleeves. It is beautifully shaped on the bust and has pretty details at the back including a statement bow and a pleat in the skirt for extra fullness.
‘Roma’
1950s dress
Prices start from £120
This classic v-neck dress from 1957 is one of our best selling designs and has a plunging neckline and mirrored shape at the back. The shoulders can be broad and capped or gathered for a more exaggerated look.
‘Firenze’
1950s dress
Prices start from £180
This timeless design features a sweetheart boned bodice beneath a sheer lace layer teamed with a gathered or smooth skirt for effortless glamour. The pattern can also be adapted to have capped or longer length sleeves.
‘Verona’
1960s dress
Prices start from £175
This eye-catching design from 1960 has a wonderful statement collar, flattering waistband and a button-up front. The pattern can be adapted to have a slinky pencil or fully flared skirt.
‘Napoli’
1950s dress
Prices start from £100
This simple and wearable design from 1957 has a demure boat neckline and a gathered skirt to draw attention to the waist and add fullness. The high neck showcases beautiful prints well and this style particularly suits a petite or athletic figure
‘Venezia’
1960s dress
Prices start from £160
This pretty pattern from 1960 has an elegant scooped neckline with optional cute cutouts and bow details teamed with a flirty full circle skirt. The back of the dress is in perfect balance with the front with a mirrored scoop.
‘Milano’
1960s dress
Prices start from £150
This striking design from the early 60s has a flattering boat neckline and a dramatic full circle swing skirt. The deep waist panel emphasises the hourglass silhouette and the V-back is as pretty as the front with it’s contrast turn backs and button details.