1960s Couture Hexagon Patchwork Duster Coat
This beautifully made coat was created by an unknown designer in the late 1960s and is likely to be American made. Patchwork fashion was all the rage in the haute couture collections of 1968 and 69, especially from the designers Yves Saint Laurent and American counterpart Adolfo Sardina. This look reminded me of Gloria Vanderbilt's wraparound coat for a fashion editorial in 1970 in her 'patchwork room'.
Unlabelled, the coat is composed of dozens of octagonal patches of cloth in a variety of patterns and colours. It showcases wools, tweeds, silks, lamé, jacquards, brocades, bouclés and cotton fabrics, patterned with tartans, houndstooths, florals, ribbon work and paisleys, among others. The result is a cohesive design which subtly fades from pale creams and beiges at the shoulders to deep charcoal greys, purples and navy blues at the bottom hem. The jacket is collarless and tailored in a straight A-line cut which is a classic duster style. The sleeves are flared and the coat is lined with ivory silk satin throughout. It is designed to be worn open and therefore has no fastenings along the front. Pair with your favourite jeans and top for a laid-back vibe or a black trouser suit for a more tailored evening look.
The coat is in very good to excellent vintage condition; I noted a few of the hexagonal patches have a small mark or two but these are very difficult to see when worn - if at all. Do check our measurements closely as the fabric has no stretch. We've tried it on at Circa and it fits a variety of sizes up to a UK size 14 or US 10 as long as you are not too broad shouldered.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 42 in. (107 cm)
WAIST - 50 in. (127 cm)
HIP - 58 in. (147 cm)
LENGTH - 39 in. (99 cm)
SHOULDERS - 17 in. (43 cm)
Pickup available at CIRCA VINTAGE
Usually ready in 24 hours
F.A.Q.
Will you set anything aside for me before I come?
We are happy to find anything you may be interested in from our website. We have an extensive offline collection. It is helpful if you can let us know your size, style, favourite colour to wear and perhaps your budget in advance of your appointment.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
Clients may wish to bring modern shapewear. You may also wish to bring favourite footwear. We often find a classic pair of nude shoes work well when trying-on, or gold and silver. We have a huge variety of slip dresses and petticoats to complete your look. Many of which are also for sale.
Do you have a price range?
Many of our lower priced pieces, under £250, are not available to buy online. Dresses usually start at £150 and go up to £30,000 for the very best archival couture. Our bridalwear price points range from £1,000 to £20,000.
Can I bring anyone with me?
Yes but please do let us know the size of your party in advance.
Where can I get alterations?
We offer some alterations in house. Should you need alterations we cannot provide, we can refer you to one of our tried and trusted tailors.
Do you have an after-care service?
We will advise you on the best way to clean and preserve your vintage purchases and can also recommend trusted local dry cleaners.
Can I cancel my appointment?
You are free to cancel but please do give us as much notice as possible.
Where's the showroom?
Our address is Circa Vintage, 87A Lansdowne Way London SW8 2PB
Upon arrival, buzz the 87A button on the gate or call us 020 7736 5038 to let you in.
Do you have parking?
We offer free, secure, off-street parking but it is a tight squeeze – so do let us know in advance if you will be needing this and we can make sure that there is space available.
How do I get there by public transport?
Underground:
Stockwell (7 min walk) - Northern and Victoria Lines
Nine Elms (9 min walk) – Northern Line
Overground:
Wandsworth Road (13 min walk) – Westbound to Clapham Junction / Eastbound to Dalston Junction
What payment methods do you accept?
Cash, credit/debit card, bank transfer, contactless, Paypal