Vintage Givenchy Haute Couture Coat 1963-64

Detail: Vintage Givenchy Haute Couture two-tone winter coat from 1963-64. Heavyweight double layered wool twill in white and blue. Hand painted enamel buttons to front. Fully lined in blue and cream silk. No pockets. Bracelet sleeves. Impeccable craftsmanship; hand stitched finishing though out. Autentication hand written client reference beneath Givenchy label 46045.

Period: 1963-64

Condition: Excellent. Almost Perfect 

Sizing: Size Small UK10-12. Bust 40". Waist 38". Hips 44". Shoulders seam to seam 16". Sleeve 22". Length 42".

Colour: White / Blue

Fabric: Wool

Origin: Paris, France

Care: Specialist Dry Cleaner

Givenchy’s trademark flowing lines, use of embroidered and print fabrics, and bold colors make his work easily recognizable. One day, he showed up at Balenciaga’s studio, unannounced with his portfolio in hand and eager to learn. He was turned away as being too inexperienced. Undaunted, he was hired soon after by Jacques Fath (1945.) He later worked briefly for Christian Dior, Pierre Balmain and Elsa Schiaparelli. Schiaparelli put him in charge of her boutique where he learned about accessories, an area that was to become important in his work. Givenchy opened his own fashion house in 1952. Lacking the funds for costly fabric, Givenchy’s first collection was produced using plain, white, men’s shirting material. His show was a huge success and earned him worldwide recognition.

He realized, before other designers that women of the 60s needed less fussy, easier-to-wear clothes. To this end, he raised hemlines and introduced the “bag” dress; the streamlined sheath dress that has come to symbolize 60s style.

Vintage Givenchy garments from the 1950s and 60s are highly collectable today. Vintage Givenchy Haute Couture Coat 1963-64.