1970s Jean-Louis Scherrer Hooded Cape

Jean-Louis Scherrer got his start at the house of Dior, working alongside a young Yves Saint Laurent and perfecting his cutting and draping skills that are so evident in this exquisite cape. He then designed at Louis Féraud from 1957 till 1961, after which he opened his own house of couture. In 1971 he opened his first boutique on the opulent Avenue Montaigne in Paris.

The graceful draping is what really makes this piece stand out. The material is a thin, lightweight wool that swishes oh so delectably when you walk! I feel like some kind of cult goddess with it on. Just watch the video and look at that movement!

It has simple strings to tie at the collar, and a perfect little hood. Elegance and simplicity are what make this design timeless.

The color is definitely more cream than white and in warm light it's even a little buttery. Photo 8 is the best representation of its true color.

It features the boutique label used in the 70s and into the mid-80s. I can't say with certainty when it's from but I have been chronologically through all of the fashion shows photographs from the early 70s into the 90s and the pieces I thought most resembled our cape were those in the Fall 1977 show. The last three photos show a cape with a similar asymmetric cut, and two coats that appear to be of the same beautifully draping material. 

The composition label is not written on so I'm not totally sure what it is but I'd say it's wool, though it's very soft and not at all itchy.

It's marked a French size 40 but given its cut and seams, it could really fit anyone. The length from the center back is 48.5 in / 123 cm.

Please don't hesitate if you have any questions!