1950s Hardy Amies Couture Black Velvet Evening Coat

£1,175.00
This couture velvet evening jacket is an exquisite example of formal evening wear by one of the greatest Royal British couturiers - Hardy Amies. This would have been made for a very wealthy patron and perfectly showcases the skill and refinement for which its designer is extolled. Amies was a favourite of the young Princess Elizabeth prior to her Coronation, and was subsequently appointed Royal Dressmaker in 1955. Among Royals, his clientele also included the actresses Vivienne Leigh, Deborah Kerr, the Duchess of Devonshire, Princess Michael of Kent and Barbara Cartland.

The jacket has a wonderful shape in that it is double breasted with a wide bertha collar and neat, straight lines designed to go over a sheath cocktail dress. The princess length 3/4 sleeves are styled to showcase exquisite heirloom jewellery and long satin evening gloves. The jacket is lined in a fine quality black silk fabric and together with the silky and inky black velvet, cocoon the wearer in pure luxury. There are a couple of carefully placed hook and eyes to ensure a perfect fit for the wearer. In very good to excellent vintage condition overall. The bottom left corner of the velvet has been compressed at some point which has resulted in 'shine marks' appearing in certain lights. That said, the coat overlaps at the front quite a bit; being a cocoon coat, these can't be seen when the coat is fully done up. We can recommend a further hook and eye lower down to ensure the coat stays in position as adjusted for the wearer. We are happy to supply a set for the new owner. Suitable for UK sizes up to 10 or US 6 equivalent.

MEASUREMENTS
Bust - 44 in. (111.8 cm)
Waist - 46 in. (116.8 cm)
Hip - 47 in. (119.4 cm)
Length - 40 in. (101.6 cm)
Shoulders - 17 in. (43.2 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 - please let us know a week in advance. 

We also have an extensive offline collection. If you let us know your size, style, favourite colour to wear and perhaps your budget, we can browse through our archive in advance of your appointment. 

Do I need to bring anything with me?

Clients may wish to bring modern shapewear when trying on garments from certain eras, especially the 1950s. Vintage clothing was often worn with undergarments that shaped the waist and as such is tailored for them.


We have a huge variety of slip dresses and petticoats to complete your look; many of which are also for sale.


You may also wish to bring your favourite footwear. We often find a classic pair of nude shoes work well when trying on, or a pair in gold or silver.

Do you have a price range?

Many of our lower-priced pieces (under £150) are not available to buy online. Our prices range from £80 - £600 for separates. Dresses start at around £150 and go up to £2,500 for the very best antique pieces and designer vintage. Our bridalwear ranges from £300 - £3,000.

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 pieces 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. If you cancel less than 24 hours before your appointment, you will be invoiced a late cancellation fee of £25.

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