Ceil Chapman is one of the great American designers. Her work was loved and worn by starlets of the time like Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, Deborah Kerr and many others and then when she launched her own label that str power helped to turn her brand into a household name. Chapman did exceptional evening and cocktail wear and this coat is a wonderful example of that

Finding one of her evening coats is a bit of a treat and this particular one is wonderful. It is made of a metallic silk brocade that has an abstract pattern that is worked through the fabric using an array of metallic colours. The design combines a graphic feeling print that is made from a light silver for the backdrop, and then has little rectangle sin a deeper silver grey along with gold and copper. The effect that this creates is dramatic and very beautiful. The coat almost has a foil feel to it but it soft to the touch. It is cut in the classic lines of the time period with a rounded and notched collar and straight sleeves. The body of the coat skims over the bust and hips and then flares out to the hem. Hidden pockets lie along the front seams and at the back there is a strap that runs across the middle for detailing. I love how the back skirt of the coat has those deep pleats on either side for a little extra flare. The buttons on the back strap and that run in a double row down the front are encrusted in rhinestone that are set in a swirling pattern of in silver and gold. Even better in person and it is very chic. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a deep grey silk. The buttons holes are properly finished along the front and there are hidden snaps to keep it perfectly in place when buttoned. Properly functioning buttonholes on the back strap as well. Pockets along the seam at the front. The easy cut should allow it to fit a range of sizes.  

Sleeves: 22"
Shoulders: 17" (slightly dropped)
Bust: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 24" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 37" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-LRG

Item# C199

Reference Photo: 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.