Vintage 1970s Bard's Striped Caftan Housecoat Maxi Robe Made in Canada

This is a vintage Bard's caftan-style housecoat or dressing gown, dating most likely to the 1970s, with a dramatic multicoloured striped design and a long, flowing silhouette.

The robe is fashioned in a textured knit fabric composed of 90% acetate and 10% nylon, with a slightly nubby, looped surface that gives the material a tactile quality. The bold striped pattern combines deep forest green, burnt orange, golden yellow, burgundy, cream, brown and black, creating a wonderfully rich, autumnal colour palette characteristic of the period.

The design is particularly effective in its arrangement of the stripes. Across the upper bodice, the stripes run horizontally, forming a rectangular yoke that extends across the bust. Below this, the fabric is arranged in long vertical and diagonal panels, creating dramatic chevron and inverted-V patterns that extend towards the hem. The back features an especially striking arrangement of broad, converging chevrons, carefully matched to create a bold geometric effect.

The robe has a gently rounded neckline and a short front opening fastened with four round, tan-coloured buttons, as well as a zipper that runs from the bodice to approximately 12 inches above the hemline. Below the bodice, the garment falls loosely, creating a relaxed, flowing silhouette with considerable fullness towards the hem. There is a slash pocket built into each lower side.

The shoulders are softly shaped, while the three-quarter-length sleeves are generously cut and finished with broad cuffs featuring vertically arranged stripes, contrasting with the horizontal stripes of the sleeves.

The robe extends to approximately ankle length, depending on the wearer's height, with a generously flared lower section and a hemline measuring approximately 84 inches in circumference.

Please note: The AI-generated model photograph is for illustrative purposes only. Please rely on the actual garment photographs for an accurate representation.

The original label reads:

BARD'S
CA 00913

The accompanying content label indicates 90% acetate / 10% nylon, with a marked size of S (Small).

About Bard's

Bard's was a Toronto clothing manufacturer established in 1938 by Joseph Henry Bardwell, who had secured the Canadian licence for the exclusive use of Viyella, the well-known British textile.

The company became associated with women's housecoats, dressing gowns and leisurewear.

Bardwell's daughter, Claire Bardwell, later known as Claire Haddad following her marriage in 1944, became one of Canada's best-known fashion designers. Specializing in elegant nightwear and coordinated lingerie sets, she was the first Canadian designer to receive a prestigious Coty Award and was associated with celebrity clients including Elizabeth Taylor, Mary Tyler Moore and Carol Burnett.

Claire Haddad continued designing for Bard's until establishing her own business in 1964.

This particular robe dates most likely to the 1970s, after Haddad's departure, and is not attributed to her design. Nevertheless, it represents the distinctive Canadian housecoat tradition with which the Bard's name became associated.

Measurements

Labelled size Small. Please refer to the following actual measurements for fit, as vintage sizing differs from modern standards.

Shoulders: 14 1/2" across from shoulder seam to shoulder seam

Sleeves: 19" long from shoulder seam

Sleeve inseam: 15 1/2"

Bust: 38"

Waist: 44"

Hips: 54"

Hemline circumference: 84"

Overall length: 54", measured at the centre back from the neck to the hemline

Measurements are taken with the garment laid flat and doubled where applicable.

Condition

In excellent condition. With crisp original labels, this garment appears to have seen little, if any, use.

A wonderfully colourful example of 1970s Canadian vintage loungewear, distinguished by its dramatic geometric stripe arrangement, textured fabric and flowing caftan silhouette. Equally attractive as a vintage housecoat or a statement piece for relaxed bohemian dressing.