Late 1970s Tartan Wrap Skirt

Condition:
This late 1970s tartan wrap skirt is in good vintage condition. A very tiny hole and a small alteration are present but barely noticeable and do not affect wear. The leather buckle tabs show a gentle age patina consistent with the era.

Key Features:

• Material: 100% wool
• Colour: Navy, red, yellow and blue tartan
• Design:
  • Traditional Scottish-inspired wrap construction
  • Two leather side buckles
  • Deep pleats for movement
  • Soft brushed wool texture
• Style: True late 1970s tartan wrap skirt silhouette
• Provenance: From the wardrobe of Doreen Willis Bailey

Background of the Brand/Fabric/Style/Era:
This piece dates to the late 1970s to early 1980s, a period when tartan wool wrap skirts became a womenswear staple across the UK and Europe. As a late 1970s tartan wrap skirt, it reflects the era’s renewed love for Highland heritage clothing. Made in warm brushed wool with a traditional tartan weave, it captures the durability, warmth, and charm of British-made garments crafted by small mills and independent boutiques.

Provenance – Doreen Willis Bailey:
This skirt comes from the wardrobe of Doreen Willis Bailey, a Canadian-born TWA hostess in the 1940s–50s who later worked with the American government to promote international travel in the UK. Renowned for her cosmopolitan lifestyle and refined taste, she met and served influential figures including JFK, and met both Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana during her later diplomatic career. Now celebrating her 100th year, Doreen remains a living link to 20th-century fashion, travel, and cultural history.

Size Information:

• Garment Measurements:
  • Waist: 78–83 cm
  • Length: 67 cm
• Modern Sizing Equivalent:
  • Women’s: UK 8–10
  • Men’s: 28–30 waist
• Model Reference: Model is 160 cm and usually wears UK 6–8.

Please note: Estimated modern size is for reference only. Customers should rely on exact measurements for best fit.

Materials:
100% Wool

Care Instructions:
Dry clean recommended. Spot clean wool gently with cold water and mild detergent. Avoid heat and agitation.

Visit Us or Shop Online

Order online with worldwide delivery, or visit us in-store at Gong Nong Bing Vintage,

68 Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 0BB, to try on and collect your items (£1 admin fee applies).

UK delivery: £4 on orders under £100, free over £100.

International delivery: Calculated at checkout

Explore More
Looking for similar pieces? Browse our vintage skirts collection or explore more from Doreen’s Wardrobe.