There is something wonderfully indulgent about this 1980s Nicole Farhi coat. Charcoal grey wool and cashmere blend fabric is paired with a sumptuous dark brown faux fur shawl collar that sweeps down the open front, with matching turn-back cuffs. The generous sleeves and softly rounded silhouette create that enveloping, oversized shape that makes vintage outerwear so satisfying to wear.
Made in Italy and fully lined, it has no fastenings, allowing the coat to fall naturally around the body. Slip pockets add practicality, while the contrast between the matte wool blend and plush faux fur gives it an understated glamour. It would look just as lovely thrown over jeans and knitwear as it would over an evening dress.
Nicole Farhi became an important name in British fashion after launching her label in the early 1980s, following her work at French Connection during the previous decade. Her clothes offered relaxed luxury through generous proportions, tactile fabrics and an elegant ease. That sensibility extended beyond the wardrobe: her Bond Street flagship, home to the much-loved Nicole’s restaurant, invited customers into a whole way of living. This coat captures that spirit perfectly.
Labelled a UK 8, the cut is exceptionally generous. I wear a UK 16–18 and it fits me, while the photographs show it on a UK 10 mannequin. It can therefore suit a variety of sizes, depending on how oversized you prefer the silhouette and how much room you want for layering.
Details
- Designer: Nicole Farhi
- Era: 1980s
- Made in Italy
- Colour: charcoal grey with dark brown faux fur
- Main fabric: 60% wool, 20% cashmere, 20% polyamide
- Faux fur trim: 67% polyacrylic, 33% cotton
- Lining: 100% viscose
- Generous shawl collar and matching turn-back cuffs
- Oversized silhouette with dropped shoulders
- Open front with no fastenings
- Two slip pockets
- Labelled UK 8; generous fit, as described above
- Photographed on a UK 10 mannequin
- Specialist dry clean only
- Condition: impeccable vintage condition
