Vintage original Art Deco ‘Ermaleen’ faux fur and silk satin fitted cape

 The second 'Ermaleen' branded cape I’ve ever had, this early artificial fur is something I look out for! I have had the occasional 1950s hat and tippet which I think may have been made of the same material. 

Excellent quality, this was originally marketed as a high quality alternative to ermine fur, and has stood the rest of time. I believe it was sold under the umbrella brand of ‘Furleen’, which produced Ermaleen, Minkaleen, Astraka.. you get the idea! I’ll add a close up label photo shortly. 

Very soft externally, with mock ‘pelts’. It is lined in a rather sumptuous off white satin, and has a ruched satin covered band to hold in place. Slightly scalloped details to hem. Fastens to the front with a single concealed furriers hook. 

Unfortunately I have no mannequin with poseable elbows, so you’ll just have to imagine it! 

Judging by the strong padded shoulderline and fitted waist I’d date it to the late 40s, but it would work well for any art deco loving bride or ball-goer. Incredibly glamorous.

Measures: fit up to and including UK 10/12? 

Shoulder to shoulder approx 17”

Length from nape to hem 20”

Measuring the ‘waist’ using the elasticated retaining waistband, it is 26” unstretched, up to an absolute maximum of 32”

I’d better for no more than 30” really, I think. Smaller than 26” is fine as you could easily tack it to reduce it, if not serving it’s purpose well enough. 

Condition: 

Just cleaned, it’s generally very good externally. There’s just a little flattening time the pile at the shoulders and to the neckline.  

I’ve shown the internal flaws in last three photo’s, all of which are unseen when worn anyway but mentioning for accuracy;

- hanging loop remains discoloured

- small label mark inner shoulder line, and a very very faint age line?

- very faint pink shaded spot to lining, looks like remains of lipstick. Nearly gone and barely noticeable