This is a truly incredible original forties set from the Atrima label, who produced Utility clothing during WW2 that were redeemable for coupons. This set consists of a durable wool dress and a matching jacket.

Though these were likely Utility pieces, designers during WW2 still strived to make their pieces fashionable as well as long-lasting: this set is no exception. The dress has a slightly dropped waist and a pleated skirt that features a curved V-neck cut and gathers at the shoulder. The skirt is decorated with a self-fabric band encircling the pleats to create a smart silhouette. The dress is fastened with a metal zipper.

The jacket has the standout feature of the white beads clustered on the rounded collar to create almost a gradient effect. It also nips in at the waist slightly with carefully constructed panels, with hints of the "New Look" style popularised by Christian Dior later in the decade. The jacket is fastened with three dimpled buttons.

A highly desirable, well-crafted find with a wealth of features that truly epitomise the 40s era.

The dress and jacket are in wonderful condition, but the zipper could do with being replaced. It fastens all the way up, but a small section of the metal part of the zipper has detached from the fabric.

Measurements best suit UK 10

Jacket:
Bust: 34 inch / 86
Waist: 28 inch / 66 cm
Length: 22 inch / 59 cm

Dress:
Bust: 34 inch / 86 cm
Waist: 28 inch / 66 cm
Length: 39 inch / 129.5 cm