ARCHIVE - 1960s All Over Embroidered Afghan Gilet
Afghan clothing became the height of fashion during the 1960s hippie scene, worn by John Lennon, David Bowie and Jimi Hendrix. In 2000, Kate Hudson famously wore one to play the Penny Lane in the film Almost Famous, starting another iteration of the trend. Today, original 1960s coats and gilets, such as this one, are highly collectible. Cut from thick coffee-brown suede, this coat is lined with luscious, super cosy sheepskin in a natural cream hue. The collar and armholes are also lined in sheepskin. The detail across the suede outer is elaborate; embroidered leaves are woven from gold- and sand-hued thread, fuchsia embroidery depicts birds and botanic forms and adorns the hems with geometric patterns. The front hangs open and cannot be fastened.
This is a fantastic example and one of the best we have owned in Circa's collection over the many years we have been in business. They are becoming increasingly rare to find, especially one as intricately detailed as this and in excellent vintage condition too. The embroidery, wool and leather are all still fresh looking. We noted a darker blemish in the shape of a half circular line to the back of the gilet, hidden in the busy detail. This cannot be seen when worn and is barely discernible in the photo of the back. Should fit a range of sizes due to the open design; on smaller sizes, the jacket will meet in the middle and on larger sizes, the jacket will reveal the torso. We all tried this on at Circa and we range in size between a UK 6-8 or US 2-4 and UK 14-16 or US 10-12.
MEASUREMENTS CLOSED
BUST - 42 in. (107 cm)
WAIST - 40 in. (102 cm)
HIP - 44 in. (112 cm)
LENGTH - 24 in. (61 cm)
Pickup currently unavailable at CIRCA VINTAGE
F.A.Q.
Where can I find more information about this item?
We are more than happy to answer any questions you may have about any item on our site. Please get in touch at shop@circavintage.com or on +44 (0)20 7365053.
Will you set anything aside for me for my appointment?
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 to my appointment?
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 at the showroom?
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 to my appointment?
Yes but please do let us know the size of your party in advance.
Where can I have my circa garment altered?
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.
Does Circa 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 Circa 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 at the Circa showroom?
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 to the Circa showroom 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 does Circa accept?
Cash, credit/debit card, bank transfer, contactless, Paypal
What is archival fashion?
Archival fashion refers to historically significant designer garments preserved for their cultural, aesthetic, or technical importance. At Circa, archival fashion includes couture archive pieces, runway garments, early designer work, and museum-quality vintage that document the evolution of fashion history.
How is archival fashion different from vintage?
While vintage typically describes clothing over 20 years old, archival vintage is selected for its rarity, provenance, and relevance to a designer’s archive or fashion history. Circa specialises in archival pieces rather than general vintage.