Vintage 1950s Raffia Evening Coat Black Knit Crochet Size L

This is a fabulous 1950s raffia evening coat that is made with an open weaved crochet knit.  I believe that they used a synthetic “raffia”, which simulates a straw normally used to weave hats or baskets.  This 1950s raffia evening coat is made in a full  floor length and has a three button closure at the top, but the buttons are missing - you could use any type of button to replace the missing ones, although they probably were originally raffia covered.  It has full cut sleeves that cinch at the wrist with a cuff.  The top of the coat is knit in a tighter weave that is accented with raffia covered buttons while the rest of the coat is made in an open weave.  This 1950s raffia evening coat is unlined - I’ve posed it with a mini dress underneath for the photos.

Age:  I think that this 1950s raffia evening coat dates to the early 50s, but it might be earlier - unusual, so difficult to date precisely

Label: No label, but this type of raffia knit was normally made in Italy

Color:  Black

Sizing:  No size is indicated, and although this 1950s raffia evening coat should fit a large size, probably for someone tall, please note the following measurements for fit, taking into account the style of the coat:

Shoulders:  17” across the tighter weave

Sleeves:  24” long from the tight weave to the cuff edge, 32 1/2” from the mid-neck to the cuff edge

Sleeve inseam:  17 1/2”

Bust:  52” around

Waist:  56” around

Length:  58” at the front, 63” at the back

Condition:  Aside from the three missing buttons, one of the decorative buttons at the left front is missing (see last close-up photo).  Otherwise, this 1950s raffia evening coat is in very good condition with no wear, tear, stains or odour.  This coat looks to have seen little use and has been well cared for over the years.

This is a fabulous 1950s raffia evening coat , not often seen - very dramatic!