Many times in life, we will learn that there is more than what meets the eye -this coat is an example of that...

When I first found this piece, I immediately recognized the design talent involved in creating it. But, it wasn't until I began researching the name on the label that I discovered its creator's artisanal intent.

The following excerpt is from a September 20, 1998 article in the New York Times newspaper. The article outlines specific craft fairs in upstate New York, and devotes several paragraphs to fiber artist Beverly Robben:

'When Beverly Robben of Rye worked in the fashion industry, she wanted something more: total control of her product. Then, 15 years ago, a business partner's friend who painted on silk asked them to make a silk-lined jacket out of a Ralph Lauren blanket. Ms. Robben decided to design her own fabrics, and a business was born. She designs wool blanket coats and jackets and chenille outerwear. Her prices range from $295 for a chenille jacket to $595 for a wool coat.

Her designs in recent years, using buffaloes, horses and petroglyphs, have a Southwestern look. "People say I must be from the Southwest," she said. "I've spent a lot of time in Santa Fe, and it probably had an influence because you just feel a pulse when you're out there." But in fact, she said, she found her inspiration in the cave paintings of the south of France. "I decided I wanted to combine the whole thing. Besides the animals and the petroglyphs, there's a man and a woman in each piece. It's the connection of humans and animals and where we all come from."

Ms. Robben, who has a bachelor's degree in fashion merchandising from Marymount College in Tarrytown, said she begins a design by sketching it on paper, then translates it to punch cards for a jacquard loom. "I've got a body I'm working with in my head," Ms. Robben said, "so I know where I want the pattern on the body." The 54-inch cloth, wide enough for an all-over design, is woven to order near York, PA., from yarn she has dyed herself in her own colors. She cuts all the fabric and constructs the first samples before letting her "little elves" take over. "I can do it from beginning to end," she said, "but I've learned I don't need to. I can save my effort for designing. It's like a baby you're letting go of."

She grew up in the craft, if not in the business: her mother made all her own clothes, and as a child she made her dolls' wardrobe. While still working in fashion, she earned a master's degree in women's studies from Manhattanville College in Purchase. "I'm interested in clothing and how it effects people," she said. "Clothing is so much of a woman. It can be security, or it can be 'I can't wear this; I can't wear that.' I love the idea of getting an idea of who a person is, and that's why I like craft fairs. I can really feel a person gravitating toward a garment."

So, as you can see from the above article, this piece, as well as others made by Ms. Robben, are really created with her full heart and soul! This overcoat is made from a medium-to-heavy weight wool blanket in brown-grey hue, with rust color checkered diamond pattern. The silhouette is almost tubular, with little to no shape. Full length sleeves are cut off the shoulder, and there is an oversized feel to the design. The collar may be worn stand-up style or flat (see pics) and the three toggle closure features real horn/antler toggle buttons. The two extra large patch pockets at hips, as well as all other edges are finished with a heavy duty 'blanket stitch' in contrasting chestnut brown color. The coat is unlined. Overall condition is very good with some mild wear to the wool surface: specifically at inner sleeves, as well as some areas of moth-eaten surface. Please see photographs for these issues, and/or feel free to contact me for more photos. Only label reads 'Beverly Robben, New York'.

Measurements:

- 18" across from shoulder to shoulder

- 24" sleeve length

- 50" chest

- 48" waist

- 36" total length from shoulder to hem

Feel free to contact me with any questions or inquiries!

♥,

Miss Master

This item is sold from an excellent, highly rated vintage boutique in New York, New York.