Galanos Couture Red Gold Velvet Fur Trimmed Coat & Dress Ensemble, 1982

Garments by James Galanos were explicitly designed to capture an audience. Having designed for some of the most prominent women of his time, Galanos often incorporated rich colors, glamorous sparkles, and of course, sumptuous furs to take his looks to the next level. Created in 1982, this ensemble is likely a custom couture set consisting of a matching jacket and dress done in a silk velvet with a gold and alabaster filigree motif on an oxblood red ground.

The dress has a monastic silhouette beginning with a high boat neck. At the waist, the dress has slight definition then slowly flares into a stately A-line. A testament to the quality of this dress, the panels that finish the skirt perfectly match the pattern allowing for a seamless look. On the back, a low V-neck line contrasts the otherwise conservative features of this dress.

The coat is adorned with a striking chocolate brown fur creating the collar. The collar scoops low enough to allow for the neckline of the dress to peek through. Like the dress, this jacket has slight definition at the waist and then flares to an A-line ending just above the knee. Gored seams on the back give the jacket some additional volume on the back towards the hem.

This stunning James Galanos ensemble is charming and regal. Worn together or as separates, both garments have been thoughtfully designed to be the perfect evening look.

Size estimate: Medium

Measurements:

Coat:

Shoulders: 17 inches

Sleeves: 18 inches

Bust: 38 inches

Waist: 34 inches

Hips: 38 inches

Length: 38 inches

Dress:

Bust: up to 38 inches

Waist: up to 40 inches

Hips: 36

Length: 59 inches

The coat is lined in a deep red velvet and closes at centre front with hidden buttons while the dress is lined in silk and closes with a centre back invisible zip. In very good condition, there are signs of wear to areas of the fur as shown in the close-up images.

Both pieces have been labeled with a date tape and numbered. 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.