A Aquascutum single raglan soutien-collar coat, estimated from the 1980s.
A special acquisition.
Made in England.
A rare one-piece sleeve example.
Aquascutum was founded in 1851 by tailor John Emary in London.
The brand name itself is a Latin neologism, combining Aqua (water) and Scutum (shield), meaning waterproof.
In the brand's early years, when gentlemen of the upper classes faced rain, they wore capes layered upon one another in overcoats. The revolutionary fabric developed by Aquascutum was soon met with unprecedented demand.
Most Aquascutum coats employ either set-in sleeves or raglan sleeves—two-piece constructions. Without precise sizing, the shoulder rises unnaturally, creating the impression of shoulder padding. The one-piece sleeve, by contrast, is praised for its exceptional shoulder fall and proportion.
In a standard two-piece raglan, the seams run in two places: across the upper sleeve and under the armpit.
With a one-piece sleeve, however, a single length of fabric wraps around the arm, leaving only one seam beneath the armpit.
Though a subtle difference, the effect on silhouette is profound.
Because the sleeve fabric falls perpendicular to gravity, the one-piece construction achieves a truer drop shoulder—a distinctly beautiful line.
Even worn oversized, it maintains a contemporary ease of wear, which is likely why many seek out this construction.
The outer is a cotton and polyester blend; the lining is 100 percent cotton with quilted interlining and batting throughout. This yields both visual refinement and genuine warmth—an all-season coat for autumn and winter wear.
The front closure employs both zipper and button in a hidden fly, preventing wind infiltration. The zip slider is YKK manufacture.
A one-piece sleeve coat with quilted lining is rarely encountered.
The color is a notably uncommon radish brown—a brick tone.
Single-color brown one-piece sleeves are scarce, and this particular shade was entirely new to our experience.
Ideal for those drawn to the unconventional.
The sizing runs generous, accommodating most frames without compromise.
Because of the one-piece sleeve construction, even in a larger size, the silhouette remains clean and proportioned.
Minor fraying appears on the interior seam near the armpit, though otherwise the coat shows no notable soiling or damage.
There are no significant defects affecting wearability; this piece remains very much fit for use.
As the coat season approaches each year, those seeking one-piece sleeve construction face scarcity.
While many turn to Burberry for single-sleeve coats, one-piece examples from Aquascutum appear far less frequently in the market. This is a genuinely rare piece.
A historically significant Aquascutum one-piece sleeve coat—one that shaped the language of tailoring itself.
If you have been searching, this opportunity merits serious consideration.
