A rare and highly collectible piece from Betty Jackson’s acclaimed 1980s collections, this striking abstract-print duster jacket showcases the designer at her most artistic. Made in England, it perfectly reflects Jackson’s signature ability to balance sculptural tailoring with effortless wearability.
Cut from what feels to be a lightweight cotton, the fabric is printed with a bold painterly design in ivory, black, ochre yellow, taupe and slate grey. The expressive brushstroke motif gives the jacket an almost hand-painted quality, while the softly crinkled texture enhances its relaxed feel.
The silhouette is quintessentially Betty Jackson. A generous dropped shawl collar falls effortlessly at the front, oversized patch pockets add practicality, and the relaxed sleeves create an easy, fluid shape. The real design highlight, however, is the dramatic deep inverted pleat running down the back, allowing the jacket to open beautifully as you move and creating an elegant, almost sculptural silhouette.
Originally, this jacket was likely designed as part of a coordinating ensemble, perhaps with a matching dress or trousers, but today it works just as effortlessly layered over denim and a white T-shirt, worn with wide-leg linen trousers, or thrown over a simple black dress. It is a statement piece that feels every bit as modern now as it did over four decades ago.
There are a handful of small rust-coloured marks to the fabric, as shown in the photographs. Thanks to the expressive abstract print, they blend well into the overall design and do not detract from the impact or wearability of this exceptional garment. They have been reflected in the price.
A wonderful opportunity to own an increasingly rare example of Betty Jackson’s early design work that combines collectability with everyday versatility.
Details
- Vintage Betty Jackson jacket
- Estimated 1980s
- Made in England
- Lightweight fabric (feels like cotton; composition label absent)
- Bold abstract painterly print
- Relaxed duster-length silhouette
- Soft dropped shawl collar
- Deep inverted pleat to the back
- Oversized long sleeves
- Two large patch pockets
- Unlined
- Slip-on open front
- Small rust-coloured marks present, as photographed and reflected in the price
