Fall/ Winter Givenchy Haute Couture Green Textured Wool Coat, 1995

This coat from Hubert de Givenchy’s last haute couture collection in 1995 marks both the end of an era and a point along an interwoven timeline of iconic designers. Givenchy began his career half a century earlier - studying at the famous Parisian fine art school: École des Beaux-Arts. As a student, he apprenticed under Jacque Fath: one of the “Big Three” couturiers after WWII and known for his dramatic, elegant designs. Prior to opening his own couture house in the early 1950s, the young Givenchy also worked under several other designers known for having a flare for the dramatic, like Elsa Schiaparelli.

The early influence of these “fashion greats” shaped Givenchy’s own aesthetic. His chic romanticism is seen in elements like the slightly dropped shoulder leading into a full sleeve gathered into a band at the wrist. The designer’s work is simultaneously simple and stunning, achieved through his mastery of line and silhouette.

Note this coat’s green topstitching, which runs down the front and back. The subtle lines create a slimming verticality within the unfitted silhouette. The drama of the coat is highlighted in a photo of supermodel Karen Mulder wearing it under the bright lights of the catwalk in 1995. After Givenchy’s final season, the couture house was lead briefly by John Galliano and then Alexander McQueen. While their work certainly differs from Givenchy, both carried on the legacy of creating arresting designs.

Size estimate: M/L

Measurements:

Shoulders: 16 inches

Sleeves: 25 inches

Bust: up to 43 inches

Waist and hips: up to 48 inches

Length: 39 inches

The coat is in excellent condition and has the haute couture label present with interior tape number 83829. The piece itself reflects the expert workmanship synonymous with couture. The textured wool is beautifully draped over the body and the coat is fully lined in green silk. The single button closure and unassuming side seam pockets illustrate the subdued drama of Givenchy.

This couture coat is clearly steeped in fashion history. Professionally 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.