Ghermaine's Coat

Five years ago, I was fortunate enough to stumble onto an exhibit at the Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris that held great meaning for me--or, rather, for my mother.  The exhibit contained a collection of the greatest haute couture designs by one of Coco Chanel's contemporaries:  a woman named, Madeleine Vionnet.  She might not be a household name in this day and age (but within the fashion world, she is still revered).

She paid great attention to a woman's body in a way that flattered her clients.  Among her many silhouettes, she is known for her classic--almost, Grecian lines.

When I saw the coat pictured (left), I gasped!!  While my mother was finishing medical school, she worked with a Doctor Gelbert.  Gelbert had a wife named, Ghermaine.

Ghermaine was Madeleine Vionnet's goddaughter!

My mother used to tell me about Ghermaine's small--but select--wardrobe.  Beautifully fitted suits and classically elegant dresses...but, also, a wonderful coat trimmed with--or, was it all?--lutre (European otter).  According to my mother, it was a treat when she sat next to Ghermaine (and was able to feel the luxurious warmth of Ghermaine's godmother's luxurious creation)!

I wasn't supposed to take a picture (but how could I not?)!



Fast-forward to yesterday.  Still in search of a "real" wool coat, I tried on every goose-down equivalent at the new Friendship Heights Marshall's.  A very nice selection of Cole Haan--at very respectable prices.  One navy Tommy Hilfiger was promising.  Fussbudget that I am, it boiled down to the headgear:  those attachable hoods look pretty around one's neck (but all but blind you when you lift them :-o!).  I went round and round--passed the brown coat twice.  (Of course I'd already made the connection in my mind :-).  I finally decided, "Why not?"  Three sizes were left:  4; 8; 14.  Would the 8 still fit me?  It was time to find out...

Yes!!!  And, 78% wool, to boot:  about as good as a Cinzia Rocca (but at a fraction of the price)--

So, yes I bought it.  I now have my "serious" wool coat.  Ghermaine's coat.  Georgina's coat.

It's uncanny, don't you think ;-)?