Late 1980s Cotton Velvet Tailored Set

This late 1980s cotton velvet set by Monsoon is a British-made two-piece in deep cotton velvet, combining a structured longline jacket with high-waisted trousers for an elegant, softly dramatic silhouette.

Condition:
Very good vintage condition. Fabric and lining are clean and well preserved. One jacket button is slightly damaged, as shown in the photos. Overall presents beautifully when worn.

Key Features:

• Era: Late 1980s
• Cut: Longline tailored jacket with matching high-waisted straight-leg trousers
• Details:
  • Quilted collar and self-covered buttons
  • Shaped waist with flared hem panels on the jacket
  • Side-buttoned waistband and pleats on the trousers
  • Fully lined for comfort and structure
• Colour: Deep dark-green / olive cotton velvet
• Brand: Monsoon – made in England

Background of the Brand/Fabric/Style:
Founded in London in 1973 by Peter Simon, Monsoon became known for artisan-inspired designs, natural fabrics, and a romantic bohemian sensibility. British-made pieces from the 1980s–1990s are especially sought after for their quality and nostalgic elegance. This tailored cotton velvet set blends Monsoon’s bohemian roots with Edwardian-influenced suiting, making it ideal for evening events, vintage styling, or elevated everyday wear.

Provenance – Doreen Willis Bailey:
This set comes from the wardrobe of Doreen Willis Bailey, a Canadian-born TWA hostess in the 1940s–50s who later worked with the American government in promoting international travel in the UK. Known for her cosmopolitan lifestyle and impeccable taste, she met and served many notable figures including JFK. Now celebrating her 100th birthday, Doreen remains a living link to a century of fashion, travel, and cultural elegance — her collection offers a rare glimpse into the wardrobe of a truly remarkable woman.

Size Information:

• Jacket measurements:
  • Shoulder: 45 cm
  • Pit to pit (bust): 96 cm
  • Waist: 80 cm
  • Length: 78 cm
  • Sleeves: 51 cm
• Trousers measurements:
  • Waist: 64 cm
  • Length (outer leg): 102 cm
  • Inside leg: 73 cm
  • Thigh: 73 cm
• Modern sizing equivalent:
  • UK: Women’s 8–10 | Men’s 36–38
  • US: Women’s 4–6 | Men’s 36–38
  • EU: Women’s 36–38 | Men’s 46–48
• Model reference: Model is 167 cm and usually wears UK 8.

Please note: Estimated modern size is for reference only. Customers should refer to the exact measurements provided above to ensure the best fit.

Materials:
Feels like cotton-blend velvet outer with acetate lining.

Care Instructions:
Dry clean only. Store on a padded hanger away from direct sunlight to preserve the velvet. Avoid crushing the pile; steam lightly if needed.

Visit Us or Shop Online

Order online with worldwide delivery, or visit us in-store at Gong Nong Bing Vintage,

68 Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 0BB, to try on and collect your items (£1 admin fee applies).

UK delivery: £4 on orders under £100, free over £100.

International delivery: Calculated at checkout

Explore More
Want to see more from Doreen’s Wardrobe? Browse here or explore our vintage sets.