I had this coat in the shop many years ago and it has managed to circle its way back to me. I am so pleased to offer it up once more as it is an extraordinary coat. Every piece of Haute Couture is special but when I can also document a coat with an editorial reference it makes it even more so. The coat dates to the Fall 1959 collection and a similar version in red appeared in the December issue of L'Officiel. A similar version forms hat same collection was owned by both Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Onassis. It becomes even more wearable and timeless done in this stark black and it is beautifully tailored. The double row of buttons at the front and curving cut makes it feel as chic and wearable now as it was when first made. It is entirely finished by hand and you can clearly see that hand work in the setting of the lining into the dress. It is so chic and a very important piece.
The coat has a deceptively simple cut that hides the precise seams and masterfully tailored cut. It is constructed with curving vertical seams that create the curves of the coat. It is more fitted through the upper bodice and then skims over the waist and flares out slightly as it nears the hem. Silk lined pockets are hidden along the outer side seams and the collar is neat with a notched front. The fabric is a black wool with a slight texture to it and this fabric choice allowed Givenchy to be able to sculpt the exact shape that he desired. Black buttons adorn the front in a double row for a slight military or pea coat feel. I love the notched collar and the sculptural effect the coat has once on. No shortcut was taken in the construction and it is a stand out piece in every possible way. Black is never the easiest to photo and it is even better in person. Excellent condition.
Fully lined in a hand set black silk taffeta. Proper finished buttonholes. The coat closes with buttons at the front and inner silk covered snaps. Finished to Haute Couture standards and entirely done by hand. The Haute Couture numbered tape label is present under the main label and is numbered #25, followed by an unidentifiable number, followed by 40. This is a medium to heavy weight coat
Sleeves: 22.5"
Shoulders: 16"
Bust: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 42.5" from neck to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# C600
Reference Photos: (1) L'Officiel de la mode, December 1959. / (2-3) Jackie Kennedy in Givenchy. Following quote from the JFK Library: "This coat was worn by Jacqueline Kennedy during a press conference announcing John F. Kennedy's candidacy for the presidency at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC on January 2, 1960. Jacqueline Kennedy also wore the coat during JFK's presidential campaign. Jacqueline Kennedy dubbed this coat the "good luck coat". / (4-6) Audrey Hepburn in Givenchy. / (7-8) Shrimpton Couture founder Cherie photographed 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.
