Medium: Rayon velvet

Date: 1968

Country: England

Credit: Gift of Helena Hernmarck

By the late 1960s, the mod styles of "Swinging London" were displaced by clothing that exuded romantic and historical decadence. The soft, tactile quality of velvet suited this mood perfectly. The bright purple fabric chosen for this coat has been embossed to create a moiré effect, giving it a faintly psychedelic edge. The buttons, sleeves, and overall silhouette incorporate both military and Victorian influences, highlighting the eclecticism of the era. The coat was sold in the short-lived Apple Boutique, opened by the fashion-savvy band the Beatles in 1967. Stocked by a group of Dutch designers known collectively as "The Fool," the boutique was operated by friends of the band. Extensive shoplifting and inadequate management led to the closing of the boutique in 1968.

Object Number: 97.98.2