1980s Krizia Red Wool Angora Lucite Star Beads Sweater

Krizia’s co-founder and designer, Mariuccia Mandella, loved bold colors and designs. Known for designing sweaters with enormous animals, the 1980s were a perfect era for her nervy eclecticism.

This sweater explores a powerful brand of femininity through a crimson red wool/angora blend. The neckline opens up with a slight scoop, while dropped sleeves drape gracefully over the shoulders. The fullness of the upper sleeves and shoulder area taper down into closely fit rib-knit cuffs. The upper bodice is also roomy, fitting loosely before reducing down into a fabulously wide rib-knit waist band. Hand attached red Lucite star beads shine randomly over the surface of the sweater, adding a realm of the spectacular to this 1980s era sweater.

Mandella, who lived and worked amidst the fashion scene in Milan, was frequently described as a designer who did not take herself or fashion too seriously. However, her designs exhibit a clear focus on comfort, craft, and style. That she was able to parlay this ability into an effortless persona is praiseworthy in itself. As Bernadine Morris of the New York Times said, Krizia’s 1982 line is, “…Filled with wit and whimsy, it had the proper lighthearted touch that people have come to expect…“ (March 23, 1982).

Size estimate: S/M

Measurements:

Sleeves: 20 inches

Bust: up to 40 inches

Waist: 28 inches

Length: 23 inches

This 1980s era red wool/angora blend sweater is in excellent condition. Featuring a roomy fit through its dropped shoulder sleeves and upper bodice, the sweater tapers down to a closer fit at both the rib-knit waist band and cuffs. Small Lucite red star charms are hand stitched to the surface of the sweater. 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.