James Galanos Couture Emerald Colorful Print Side Pleat Coat, 1970s

Legendary American fashion designer James Galanos had a singular vision for the work he created: “I never deviated from what was important, which was quality,” he once said. This silk coat is a magnificent example of why even Hubert de Givenchy raved of his clothes, “We don’t make them this well in Paris.”

The haute couture jacket is tailored from a gorgeous silk checkerboard print—an artwork of emerald, red, yellow, sky blue, gray and black pastels. It beautifully suits the boxy silhouette, which takes on a distinctive shape with a wide Johnny collar, three-quarter-length cuffed sleeves and side pleats. A pair of belts, each affixed with oversized black buttons, flanks the hips to define the waistline.

The fine details carry through to the interior, which is impeccably hand-finished with matching silk-covered buttons down the front placket and a matching print silk chiffon lining. The short hemline makes this vintage find a perfect match for a mini or slender trousers—and can be just as striking for day as it can be for evening.

Size estimate: S/M

Measurements:

Shoulders: 16 inches

Bust, waist, hips: 40 inches

Sleeves: 18 inches

Length: 35 inches

This vintage James Galanos haute couture coat from the Seventies is in excellent condition. It is cut from a silk checkerboard print featuring emerald, red, yellow, sky blue, gray and black pastels. The above-the-knee-length boxy jacket has a wide Johnny collar, three-quarter-length cuffed sleeves and side pleats. A pair of belts, attached at the front and back with oversized black buttons, flanks the hips.

The front placket masks the silk-covered buttons when closed. When opened, they are revealed, along with the matching printed silk chiffon lining. The jacket has been professionally 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.