Object: Man's coat
Date: c. 1850
Medium: Wool
Country: USA
Credit Line: Gift of Robert Riley
Object number: 82.33.2
DescriptionMan's coat of black wool
Label Text:As the simple wool of British country gentlemen gradually replaced French-inspired ornamental silk, the tailored suit became the uniform of 19th-century Europe's rising bourgeoisie. Men from all levels of society began to wear the suit, especially in the United States, as technical advancements in production allowed manufacturers to offer affordable, ready-to-wear versions. Custom-tailored ensembles remained the expensive province of the wealthy, and although increasingly rare, men were able to ornament their dark garb with colorful waistcoats, such as this version made with popular silk tartan, or opt for muted patterns, like the simple checked textile.
In Collection(s)
Exhibitions:
- The Tailor's Art
- Minimalism / Maximalism: Fashion Extremes