Circa 1985

France

Grey suede jacket and trouser suit by Claude Montana dating from the 1980s. Long zip-front jacket with architectural long sleeves, emphasised by waves studded with silver metal and echoed on the trousers and matching belt. Trousers with darts, slanted side pockets, hip pockets and zip fastening at the ankles. Acetate taffeta lining and claws indicating Claude Montana for Idéal Cuir, Made in France Paris. Representative of Claude Montana's work in the 1980s. Some studded parts missing and slight patina of the suede which remains clean and unblemished, the only flaw to be noted. Good general condition of colour and conservation.

Dimensions: French size 38-40. Coat: shoulders 40, chest 95-100 cm, waist 85 cm, sleeves 65 cm, hips 104 cm, height 105 cm. Trousers: waist 77 cm, height 106 cm, hips 102 cm.

Claude Montana (1947- 2013) was a French couturier whose singular style remains emblematic of the couture spirit of the 1980s. He serves as a benchmark for many contemporary designers, including Alexander McQueen, who has paid homage to him on numerous occasions in his collections. Claude Montana began his career in the 1960s, and was part of the "Palace generation" in the 1980s, when he made a name for himself. During this period, he was a central figure in the fashion world, and remained famous for his ready-to-wear collections, which featured imposing, architectural shapes with strong shoulders.