V&A
Oversized Cream Waterproof Cotton Trench Coat
1980s · 1980s · British
Production
ready-to-wear
Material
waterproofed cotton
Culture
British
Movement
Power Dressing
Influences
Japanese kimono sleeves · 1980s architectural silhouettes
This oversized raincoat features an extremely voluminous silhouette characteristic of 1980s power dressing. The garment displays wide, cape-like sleeves that extend dramatically from the shoulders, creating a triangular silhouette when viewed from behind. The coat appears to be constructed from waterproofed cotton in a neutral cream tone. A matching belt cinches the waist, providing structure to the otherwise flowing form. The high collar and substantial fabric weight suggest practical weather protection while maintaining the era's preference for bold, architectural shapes. The construction appears to use generous fabric allocation to achieve the distinctive wide-sleeve profile that dominated outerwear design during this period.
coatoversizedhigh neckmidi
Connected To
Movement·Power Dressing
LINEAGEsame era · cross-culture→ directed
Lineage: “1980s architectural silhouettes”
Both coats weaponize volume as armor, but where the mock crocodile leather coat achieves menace through its reptilian surface and monolithic silhouette, the cream trench disarms with its softer drape while maintaining the same shoulder-forward stance.
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