This coat is extraordinary. It is a beautiful and early example of the work that the Christian Dior label was doing during this time period. The label is the Christian Dior, New York label and pieces form this label where made for the American market based on the runway designs of Paris. Many of the same high standard finishes that the true Haute Couture pieces were incorporated.

The coat is cut with the volume and curves that defined the era and showcases the influence that the house of Dior had in establishing the direction fashion was taking in this time period. A neat small collar curves around the neckline. This sits above the large carved wood buttons that run down the front. The lines of the coat are simple and beautiful with a sweeping fullness that is quite wonderful. The design has curving shoulders from which the arms extend. I love that the seams to set the arms into the coat extend out from the neck and directly into the sleeves so that there is no traditional arm seam to break the line. Through the body and extending out tot he hem the cut is fantastically full and voluminous. An angles pocket sits on each hip at the front and the sleeves have a half strap detail with a smaller carved wood button on each cuff. The fabric is amazing and feels like a thick yarn that has been woven into a cross hatch boucle. The thick strands combine a gorgeous combination of pinks, corals, blues, purples and pops of other colors that become apparent the closer you look. The result is bright and happy in feel. The inside is lined in a pretty blue silk so you get a wonderful pop of contrast when you leave it open. Excellent condition

Lined in hand set black, textured blue silk. It buttons to close at the front and has pockets on each hip. The buttons have proper finished buttonholes. Hand finishes. The cut is meant to sit oversized on the body and so will fit a variety of sizes. Note that the inside lining is a slightly deeper color then how it photoed and that there is a slight grubbiness to the inside lining near the neckline as shown in the photo after the label shot.

Sleeves: approx 20"
Shoulders: approx 15" but no true seams so you can go up or down a bit
Bust: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam inside
Waist-hips: open
Length: 39" from top of bodice to waist

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-LRG

Item# C499

Reference Photos: (1-2) Cherie, Owner of Shrimpton Couture, by Erin Leydon. 

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.