Duro Olowu Green Blue Red Cut Out Silk Lace Cape, 2012

Duro Olowu is a Nigerian designer who made a splash in the fashion scene in 2005. Educated in the UK, Olowu’s designs offer a brilliant cosmopolitan fervor featuring mesmerizing colors and patterns that are uniquely African and mixing them with stunning tailoring that is uniquely British. Inspired by art, history, and his environment, Olowu has understandably earned great acclaim worldwide with his dresses being donned by First Lady Michelle Obama and style icon Iris Apfel.

From his Fall 2012 collection which showcased his combinational aesthetic vision, this cape is made from a masterfully made lace. Bulbous floral motifs of moss green, pear, and saffron red connected by a web of deep turquoise lace makes for an artistic compilation of texture and transparency.

Around the hem, blue, red, and soft mint picos extend for a natural finish. The cape is tied together with a moss green standing collar and partial facing that gives the cape a visual anchor. This cape is designed with the worldly savant in mind and makes for an excellent evening wear conversation piece. It can be seen from the 2012 photoshoot as look #21 in a different colorway.

Measurements:

Size estimate: S/M

Measurements:

Width across top: 56 inches

Length: 44 inches

The cape fastens with satin covered buttons and loops from the neck to the end of the facing. The remainder of the centre front edge is bound in the moss silk satin. In excellent condition, this cape has been professionally eco dry cleaned and pressed. High-quality vintage pieces like this are yours to live in and love while increasing in value every year. It’s never too soon to start collecting them, as an investment in your wardrobe—and in yourself.