1990s Pauline Trigere creme and Navy Striped Wool Twill Coat Skirt Suit

Pauline Trigère was a French born, American designer who is acclaimed by her effective use of line, and minimalist aesthetic. Rising to popularity in the 1950s, Trigère favored a clean, tailored look, preferring to allow the fabric to speak independently, and embellishing her designs with either ornate brooches or buttons. While Trigère designed an array of garment styles, she is most noted for her outerwear pieces, and suit ensembles.

This ca. 1990s Trigère suit is a wool twill of crème, with navy stripes throughout. The jacket is of a boxy silhouette, and slightly pegs at the hem that hits at knee level. The shift in grain at the jacket’s standing collar, and at two appliques sewn at a gradual angle, introduce visual interest to the consistent stripe pattern. With this jacket, the skirt is a traditional pencil skirt of the same fabric, and falls just at the knee as well.

Although it is wool, the fabric is exceptionally breathable, and is perfect in color, and styled to function as a casual day suit among many other possibilities. Keeping true to Trigère’s trademark design feature, the jacket can be fastened at the neck with two large mother of pearl buttons. Don’t be mistaken by the minimalistic style of this ensemble. It is highly collectable, as a similar suit in style and pattern is housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s fashion collection.

Size Estimate:

S/M Measurements:

Jacket:

Shoulders: 15 inches

Sleeves: 22 inches

Bust, Waist, Hips: 40 inches

Length: 41.5 inches

Skirt:

Size estimate: Medium

Waist: 25 inches

Hips: 36 inches

Length: 23 inches

Made of wool, this suit set is unlined except for the jacket sleeves. The jacket contains two in seam side pockets, and is only fastened at the neck. The skirt has a wide 2” waistband, and closes at the side with a zip, and hook and eye. This striped twill fabric provides a degree of structure, but also allows for crisp, defined drapes. Professionally cleaned and in excellent condition. 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.