Vintage 1980s Men's Black Wool Double Breasted Overcoat Cardinal Montreal Canada

This is a vintage men's black wool overcoat by Cardinal of Montreal, dating most likely to the 1980s. Made in Canada from 100% wool, the coat features a classic double-breasted design with a long, generously proportioned silhouette and substantial tailoring.

The coat has structured, padded shoulders, broad peaked lapels and a double-breasted front with six black buttons arranged in two vertical rows, two of which fasten the coat. The wide lapels and relatively full cut are characteristic of men's overcoats of the 1980s.

A welted breast pocket is positioned on the left chest, while two horizontal flap pockets are located at hip level. The long sleeves are finished with four small decorative buttons at each cuff.

The back is simply tailored with a centre seam and a long centre vent for ease of movement. At 46 1/2 inches in length, the coat provides substantial coverage, extending to approximately mid-calf depending on the wearer's height.

The outer fabric is 100% wool in a solid black colour, with a dense, smooth, finely brushed surface. The interior is fully lined in black acetate satin-finish fabric.

The coat was manufactured by Cardinal of Montreal, a Canadian outerwear manufacturer established in 1938 and known for producing quality men's overcoats and topcoats, including garments made from cashmere and fine wool fabrics. Cardinal outerwear was sold through upscale department stores, including Saks Fifth Avenue and Bloomingdale's.

The original label identifies the coat as DB Town, size 42S, with a 100% wool outer shell and 100% acetate lining. A separate bilingual Canadian manufacturing label bears the ACTWU/TAVT union designation, associated with the Amalgamated Clothing and Textile Workers Union, which operated from 1976 to 1995. The label also carries Canadian textile identification number CA 00292, assigned to Cardinal of Montreal, along with RN 83065.

The union label, styling and construction suggest a production date during the 1980s, although an early 1990s date is also possible.

Maker: Cardinal of Montreal – DB Town
Origin: Made in Canada
Period: Circa 1980s
Material: 100% wool outer shell; 100% acetate lining
Colour: Black
Labelled size: 42 Short (42S)

Measurements:

Shoulders: 21" across, seam to seam
Sleeves: 25" from shoulder seam
Sleeve inseam: 15 3/4"
Chest: 48" around, measured under the arms
Waist: 46" around
Overall length: 46 1/2" measured at the back from the neck seam

Condition: In very good condition with no pronounced wear, tears, soiling, staining or odour.

This is a well made overcoat - Cardinal is known for quality and carried at upscale department stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue and Bloomingdale’s.  Classic style….