Circa 1915 Antique Fine Knit Wool Walking Suit With Tiger's Eye Buttons
This magnificent circa 1915 antique fine knit walking suit in pale fawn is in incredible vintage condition with some extraordinary construction and design features. Pieces such as this would have been designed as sportswear and outwear for women in the elite at the turn of the century and would have been worn on shooting excursions and country walks.
It is designed to be practical, however it is also adorned with decorative buttons (82 in total) and intricate stitching to maintain a stylish, feminine aesthetic. This coat is comprised of fine knit Worstead wool in pale fawn with the softest to touch caramel coloured felt inserts on the bodice, collar and cuffs. The pretty Peter Pan collar is trimmed with a tan ribbon trim as are the rounded cuffs. The numerous faux tiger eye buttons are original and made from early lucite. The majority are 0.6 inches across and embellish the coat running vertically along the seams both front and reverse, the shoulders, mid back and lower half of the sleeves. There are 2 X larger buttons measuring 1.1 inches across positioned either side of the belt fastening at the waist.
The coat is designed to be stepped into and opens at the front with a series of concealed popper fastenings beneath the collar to the left and continuing the length of the felt insert on the bodice. The belt feature also secures with concealed popper closures to the left. Decorative linear stitching is used to enhance the line of the piece throughout. This beautiful coat is remarkably well preserved and has only minimal restorative darning work which is barely visible on the collar and at two points on the bodice. A museum worthy piece for the discerning collector and completely wearable with care. Would fit up to a US size 6-8, UK size 10-12. Our model is a UK8-10 and 5ft 11in. (180cm) and this dress was a good fit on her.
MEASUREMENTS:
BUST - 36 in. (91.44 cm)
WAIST - 30 in. (76.2 cm)
HIP - 39 in. (99.06 cm)
LENGTH - 45 in. (114.3 cm)
Pickup available at CIRCA VINTAGE
Usually ready in 24 hours
F.A.Q.
Will you set anything aside for me before I come?
We are happy to find anything you may be interested in from our website - please let us know a week in advance.
We also have an extensive offline collection. If you let us know your size, style, favourite colour to wear and perhaps your budget, we can browse through our archive in advance of your appointment.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
Clients may wish to bring modern shapewear when trying on garments from certain eras, especially the 1950s. Vintage clothing was often worn with undergarments that shaped the waist and as such is tailored for them.
We have a huge variety of slip dresses and petticoats to complete your look; many of which are also for sale.
You may also wish to bring your favourite footwear. We often find a classic pair of nude shoes work well when trying on, or a pair in gold or silver.
Do you have a price range?
Many of our lower-priced pieces (under £150) are not available to buy online. Our prices range from £80 - £600 for separates. Dresses start at around £150 and go up to £2,500 for the very best antique pieces and designer vintage. Our bridalwear ranges from £300 - £3,000.
Can I bring anyone with me?
Yes but please do let us know the size of your party in advance.
Where can I get alterations?
We offer some alterations in house. Should you need alterations we cannot provide, we can refer you to one of our tried and trusted tailors.
Do you have an after-care service?
We will advise you on the best way to clean and preserve your vintage pieces and can also recommend trusted local dry cleaners.
Can I cancel my appointment?
You are free to cancel but please do give us as much notice as possible. If you cancel less than 24 hours before your appointment, you will be invoiced a late cancellation fee of £25.
Where's the showroom?
Our address is Circa Vintage, 87A Lansdowne Way London SW8 2PB
Upon arrival, buzz the 87A button on the gate or call us 020 7736 5038 to let you in.
Do you have parking?
We offer free, secure, off-street parking but it is a tight squeeze – so do let us know in advance if you will be needing this and we can make sure that there is space available.
How do I get there by public transport?
Underground:
Stockwell (7 min walk) - Northern and Victoria Lines
Nine Elms (9 min walk) – Northern Line
Overground:
Wandsworth Road (13 min walk) – Westbound to Clapham Junction / Eastbound to Dalston Junction
What payment methods do you accept?
Cash, credit/debit card, bank transfer, contactless, Paypal