Vintage 1960s Simonetta and Fabiani Red Wool Coat

This is a vintage coat dating to between 1962 and 1965. It was designed by Duchess Simonetta Colonna di Cesaro and her husband Alberto Fabiani. Simonetta showed her first collection in 1946 in Rome, at a time immediately after the war when conditions were less than ideal. She, along with Fabiani, Emilio Pucci and other young Italian designers had an impact on the fashion world, which until then was dominated by Paris. Duchess Simonetta and Alberto Fabiani started their Parisian haute couture “Simonetta et Fabiani” label in 1962, but it was short lived, lasting only three years until 1965. They had a loyal following, customers such as Lauren Bacall, Jackie Kennedy and Audrey Hepburn.

Because the enterprise only lasted three years, examples are difficult to come by, so this is a rather rare coat. It is beautifully constructed and meant to be worn oversized. It does up with three large red plastic buttons, has a decorative belt at the back affixed with two large buttons, a small high collar, raglan sleeves, built-in slash pockets, one at either side. The coat is fully lined. The fabric is of superior quality - quite thick wool.

Color: Red

Material: Wool

Sizing: No size is indicated, and this is difficult to size because it is supposed to be worn oversized. These are the measurements:

Sleeves: 24” from the neck to the cuff (difficult to measure due to raglan cut)

Sleeve Inseam: 8 1/2”

Bust: 48” around, taken under the arms

Waist: 48”

Hips: 48”

Overall length: 40"

It's in very good condition with no wear, tear or odors. There are two very small, light brownish marks, one at the right hip front and the other below the hip on the left, really very minor.  The stitching of the label has come away on the right hand side and the button on the left side of the belt is off, needs to be stitched back on.

This is a fabulous example of a Simonetta et Fabiani garment - great color and cut.