Description
An elegant 1930s evening or opera coat in burgundy red rayon velvet, this beauty features a blue eagle National Recovery Administration label, dating it to between 1933 and 1935. A round, pleated collar frames the face, below a single button and loop closure. Below the slightly dropped shoulders, the long sleeves are full at the top, tapering to the wrists. The shape of the coat is just slightly flared from the bust to the hem: a silhouette more similar to the cocoon-shape of the 1920s than the swingy, full shape of the later 1930s and 1940s. A hidden tie and loop at the waist is the only fastening other than the button at the neck. The warm-toned burgundy velvet is soft and plush. It is lined with a layer of fleece-backed wool, like a thin blanket, for added insulation on chilly nights. Originally, this wool lining was hidden underneath a burgundy silk lining layer, but this was damaged during the coat’s recent trip to the dry-cleaner, and had to be removed. Several other issues to note include: a replacement tie at the waist (original had to be removed along with the silk lining), replacement binding tape on both hem layers (see photo), an older mend at the front right shoulder just under the collar, and some very minor crushing to the pile of the velvet in places from normal wear and storage. This 90-year-old, 1930s velvet evening coat coat is in good, sturdy and wearable condition, thanks to my awesome seamstress who removed the lining and re-hemmed both present layers. It is fairly long (almost dragging the ground on me, at 5 feet 2 inches) and should fit best (loosely) for a modern extra small, or a small with relatively narrow shoulders. See the detailed measurements below, for more sizing info.
Size: XS-S
- Bust: should fit approx. 34-36 inches, over relatively thin clothing.
- Waist: 36 inches flat, with a bit of overlap in front.
- Hip: 42 inches flat, with a bit of overlap in front. Best for 40 inches or smaller.
- Length: 50 inches from shoulder to hem in front.
- Back of neck to hem length: 52.5 inches.
- Sleeve length: 24 inches.
- Shoulder to shoulder: 14.5 inches.
- Label: Leschin Inc. Chicago
