'Faye Dunaway' evening dress, Thea Porter Couture, British, 1970, patterned chiffon

Long dress of dark blue chiffon printed with grey geometrical and foliage patterns. Standing collar. Large elbow-length sleeves of dark blue chiffon with 2 rows of velvet braid. The dress has a yoke down to mid waist, embroidered with gold and silk thread, showing geometrical and foliage patterns. Fastens at the back with 3 hooks and eyes. The skirt of the dress is pleated at the waist. The hem is decorated with 2 rows of velvet braid. It is lined with blue silk.

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Jerusalem-born Thea Porter grew up in Damascus, Syria and spent her early adult life in Beirut, Lebanon. She started to design clothes after moving to London in 1964. She combined her artists eye with a knowledge of non-Western garment construction and textiles to produce luxurious garments that appealed to an affluent clientele with hippie sensibilities.

This is an example of one of Porter's signature styles, named the 'Faye' dress after her client American actress Faye Dunaway. The 'Faye' style is distinguished by its high-neck and flowing sleeves. Porter's 'Faye' dresses were usually made from sheer georgette with a panel of antique brocade on the chest. Porter designed several variations of the 'Faye' from 1968 onwards.

Thea Porter designed luxurious garments for an exclusive clientele including Princess Margaret and Elizabeth Taylor. Born and brought up in the Middle East, she was inspired by antique silks, braids and beading, and brought her international look to London when she opened her boutique in Greek Street, Soho. This design was named after Faye Dunaway, another customer.

T.900-2000