Caroline Charles 1980s Carmine Tweed Belted Full Length Coat
History
Cairo born to British parents, Caroline Mary Charles OBE established her eponymous fashion label in 1963, following a childhood spent developing her deep fascination for all things style.
Completing her industry education at Swindon Art School in 1960, Caroline wasted little time bringing her creations to attention of a worldwide public, thus embarking upon her ‘Mod’ tour across thirty-six cities spanning the UK, Europe and the US.
Designing for the likes of Miss Selfridge, her collections proved a hit with celebrities including Lulu, Marianne Faithfull, Barbara Streisand, Dionne Warwick, Mick Jagger, Ringo Starr and more besides, while she could often be found frequenting numerous television and radio programmes both sides of the channel.
With her first store opening in Beauchamp Place, London in 1970, Caroline was also successful in securing a Beverly Hills outlet, thereby cementing her international appeal. However, she was also grounded enough to collaborate with the likes of Marks & Spencer and Boots, both as a consultant and workwear supplier.
Courting favour with Diana Princess of Wales, Caroline found herself a familiar name with the English Gentry, while providing costume designs for BBC television and building solid foundations with Japanese clothing labels and textile producers.
With the unveiling of her Japanese store in 1990, Caroline continued to find herself in demand to clients from all sectors, later going on to design a commemorative scarf for the Queen, while dressing Academy Award Winner Emma Thompson in 1993.
Graced with an OBE in 2000, Caroline continued her expansion plans through the opening of further British stores in Harrogate, Richmond, Wilmslow, Guildford and many more, before introducing her ‘Cruise Collection’ in 2009.
Under invitation by the Chinese Embassy in London, Caroline put on a successful fashion show, shortly before the launch of her first book in 2010, closely supported with her personal book signings across the UK.
Today, the Carline Charles fashion label shows no signs of slowing down, and she herself currently resides in Knightsbridge, London, and remains wholly pivotal to the future of Caroline Charles and whatever may lie beyond.
Description
As a superb, oversized, cozy wool wrap style coat, with fold up cuffs, matching belt and integral pockets, this particular 1980s piece demonstrates exceptional quality from Caroline Charles, while showcasing the perfect example of what a beautiful coat should be.
Details
Designer Caroline Charles
Fabric 100% wool fully lined in acetate
Size Label reads Small but will fit UK 8-12
Alterations None
Condition
Excellent (see condition chart)
Imperfections One tiny pull to front left panel, tiny blemish to the hem lining – nothing too serious at all. Colours are vibrant and fabric is lush.
Measurements
Measured flat without stretching (please double for complete size)
Shoulder To Shoulder (across back) Raglan Sleeves so NA
Bust (at widest point) 24″
Waist 28″
Hips 23″
Length (collar to hem) 48″
Sleeve Length (underarm to cuff) 21″
Sleeve Length (collar to cuff) 33″
Additional Information
Mannequin is UK 8-10 | Bust 31.5″ | Waist 24″ | Hips 34.5″
The jacket was not pinned for photography purposes