A vintage green silk and black velvet Shanghai-style pea coat, medium in size, stands out not just for its external beauty but also for the thoughtful design of its pockets, both inside and out, that merge functionality with luxury. This mid-20th century coat reflects the fusion of Eastern and Western fashion, characteristic of Shanghai's cosmopolitan influence.
The exterior of the coat is crafted from a rich, green silk that gives it a lustrous appearance, while accents of black velvet add depth and contrast, particularly on the collar and cuffs. The pockets on the outside are discreetly integrated into the coat's design, likely lined with black velvet to match the luxurious detailing found elsewhere on the garment. This choice of material for the pocket linings is not only practical, keeping the hands warm, but also a nod to the coat's overall aesthetic, blending seamlessly with the elegant, tactile experience of wearing the coat.
Inside, the coat surprises with additional pockets, a feature that adds practicality to its sophisticated design. These internal pockets are likely lined with the same green silk as the coat's exterior, ensuring a consistent, smooth touch against any items stored within, while also reinforcing the coat's luxurious feel. The use of silk inside the pockets is a detail that speaks to the quality and thoughtfulness behind the garment's construction, offering a soft and protective space for personal belongings.
The medium size of the coat suggests it was intended to be accessible and comfortable for a range of body types, with pockets designed to be both useful and enhance the garment's elegant silhouette. The presence of pockets both inside and out, detailed with high-quality materials like black velvet and green silk, underscores the Shanghai style's blend of practicality with luxury, making this pea coat not just a piece of clothing but a statement of fashion and function intertwined.