Prada F/W 2004 Runway Green Taffeta Mink Trim Crystal Belted Coat

Prada has been in the business of designing collections inspired by the very women Muccia Prada, the visionary behind the Italian house of Prada, is known for her subversive approach to fashion. She famously introduced the use of nylon to high fashion in the 1990s, giving luxury a new dimension that was free from traditional ideas. Describing her creative process as “always trying to go against the rules, the cliché” in an interview for Vogue, Muccia has consistently created unique designs that feel contemporary years after their debut.

According to Muccia, the Prada 2004 Fall/Winter collection “…was a dream of extreme romanticism,” inspired by “the idea of eighteenth-century painting, with video games.” This dream materialized as an array of bejeweled fifties silhouettes and futuristic prints, seamlessly merging past and future ideas of beauty. As seen as the opening look on that season’s runway, this luxurious coat is quintessential Prada at its best.

Done in a nylon taffeta, this beautifully tailored trench coat features a tiger-striped techno print in saturated hues of military green, black, and neon green. The coat begins with a notched collar and long raglan sleeves that reach just above the wrists. It falls just so from lightly structured shoulders to a flattering knee length, creating an A-line silhouette.

A black silk ribbon embellished with jet black crystal beads wraps around the outside of the pointed collar, adding depth, sparkle, and a nice contrast of texture that draws the eye upwards. The collar is also lined in a rich brown mink fur, creating an even more luxurious, layered collar that cocoons around the neck, giving this coat a wintry, regal feel that continues throughout.

Size 40 IT

Size estimate: SML/MED

Measurements:

Bust: 40 inches

Waist: 40 inches unbelted, with belt 27-32 inches

Hips: 42 inches

Length: 42 inches

A wide band of mink fur trim along the center front placket reaches from neckline to hem, accentuating the natural lines of the body while adding a satisfying note of drama. An accompanying belt of the same printed fabric may be worn cinched at the waist, providing extra definition.

Complete with a thigh-high slit that opens at the center front, and a discreet slit at the back, this daring coat is finished with stitch detailing at the two side pockets, collar, shoulders, and belt, adding texture and elegance. A special addition to the discerning fashion lover’s wardrobe, this magnificent trench coat is the perfect outerwear choice for a winter wedding, cocktail party, or special occasion, and can easily be styled with the accompanying belt or a bejeweled belt of your choosing.

This 2004 Prada coat is fully lined in black silk and closes with concealed button closures beneath the mink trim at the center front placket. The silk lining is padded, making this coat heavier in weight. The print is signed ‘Prada’ throughout. In excellent condition, with a small area of wear to the mink trim as shown in the last 2 images, ( it is very minor and it is only noticeable upon close inspection) this coat has been professionally eco dry cleaned and pressed. High-quality vintage pieces like this are yours to live in and love while increasing in value every year. It’s never too soon to start collecting them, as an investment in your wardrobe—and in yourself.