Astrakhan for beginners

"The brute covers himself, the rich man and the fop adorn themselves, the elegant man dresses!"

-Honore de Balzac

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ay329
Posts: 505
Joined: Tue Aug 07, 2007 3:54 pm
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Fri Apr 25, 2014 7:09 pm

Astrakhan (the Russian name for it) is generically known as Persian lamb. There are different grades, but I choose the rougher older type. I don't care much for other furs given the ethical considerations. But my hypocrisy was content with trying out some Astrakhan given my variety was not the new born and the byproduct was used to feed people...not just dumped in the trash.

I desired an Astrakhan collar/lapel jacket, but had little need for an overcoat in Los Angeles. However I have desired a Navy Peacoat for some time

On a previous trip to Athens, all the various pieces started coming together. Was referred to a competent new tailor, whom I was happy with on the first suit.

Then I found an old Moorbrook Navy cloth in the 650gram range. I was content with a "lighter weight" Navy Peacoat as I have need for a casual jacket to deal with L.A.'s mild climate.

On my way to drop off the cloth to the tailor, I passed a fur shop with Astrakhan jackets. The fur merchant had a tailoring service (as I later found out my tailor did not have the knowledge to add the Astrakhan to the lapel and collar).

I wanted a loose fitting jacket that could layer well with sweaters and could easily hide the print of a concealed handgun or baton. A couple of fittings later on my follow up trip and the finished garment fits to my satisfaction.

The Moorbrook cloth is way nicer than a Melton wool and the Astrakhan adds a certain level of refinement that I desire

Got it in the mail and took it to my L.A. based Greek tailor for a further fitting as to reducing its roominess and ensuring the buttons are well enough away from the pockets

I love this jacket and encourage others to make your dreams come true.


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Last edited by ay329 on Sat Apr 26, 2014 4:38 am, edited 1 time in total.
Slewfoot
Posts: 523
Joined: Fri Feb 05, 2010 8:22 pm
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Sat Apr 26, 2014 2:04 am

Looks great and glad it's being enjoyed.
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