Turnbull & Asser was founded in 1885 by Messrs Regan Turnbull who was a hosier and Ernest Asser whose background was in sales. The original London shop focused on men's hosiery. They soon expanded to meet the needs of their wealthy clients and offered a bespoke service for the making of gentlemen’s  clothes. In 1895 they changed their name to “Turnbull & Asser”. They have a long and lustrous history and still operate to this day. This is a men's piece but is slim cut and works for any gender. In the 1950s The Gentleman’s Magazine described the smoking jacket as: “A kind of short robe de chambre, of velvet, cashmere, plush, merino or printed flannel, lined with bright colours, ornamented with brandenbourgs, olives or large buttons.” This one is in immaculate conditon. The company still makes versions of these today with new one's being several thousand dollars. It is very difficult to date this since they have made versions of them since the 1920s and this one is so perfect. It does feels older though and is in perfect condition

The jacket is made from a black velvet that is as deep a black as you can get. It has a slim cut and the shoulders are sharp and tailored. Each sleeve is cut on a slight curve to follow the shape of the arm in the proper tailoring manner. It flares out slightly as it nears the hem and the interior is lined with a crisp white silk satin that is hand set. Pockets sit on each hip and I love the piping detailing on the flap of each. The collar runs down to the waist and is set with a contrasting and more matted ribbed silk. Braiding edges the collar and extends down the front edges. The jacket closes with huge front frog knots made of the same black braided cording. I love that you can literally close the knots to either side depending on which is more comfortable. I assume this was done originally to accommodate both left and right handed gentleman. It is fabulous and a great find. Excellent condition 

Fully lined in a white silk satin and closes with the fron braided loops and knots. Light padding in each shoulder and pockets on each hip. It looks to have never been worn or worn very little. 

Sleeves: 22"
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 30" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# C587

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.