Vintage 1980s WilliWear Willi Smith Men's Wool Jacket

Original 1980s WilliWear men's jacket by American designer Willi Smith, tailored in a dark charcoal grey wool blend. Made in Hong Kong, it has the broad-shouldered silhouette associated with 1980s menswear and a distinctive WilliWear figural patterned lining.

The jacket has a double-breasted four-button front, notched lapels, a welt breast pocket, two jetted lower pockets and three-button cuffs. The outer fabric is 63% wool and 37% polyester, in a charcoal grey colour.

The interior is fully lined in tonal black fabric patterned with stylized human figures within irregular oval forms. The lining is 52% acetate and 48% nylon.

Willi Smith co-founded WilliWear Ltd. in 1976 and became known for his concept of "street couture," combining contemporary American sportswear and street influences with relaxed tailoring. WilliWear became a major American fashion label during the 1980s. Smith died in 1987 at the age of 39, and WilliWear subsequently closed in 1990.

The size tag reads M, but vintage sizing differs considerably from modern sizing, so please refer to the measurements below, taking its 1980s oversized style into consideration.

Measurements

Shoulders: 20 inches seam to seam
Sleeves: 26 1/2 inches
Sleeve inseam: 18 inches
Chest: 44 inches around, 22 inches across underarm to underarm
Waist: 35 inches
Length: 31 inches

Fabric

Outer: 63% wool, 37% polyester
Lining: 52% acetate, 48% nylon
Made in Hong Kong

Condition

Condition: Excellent condition — no stains, holes, or pronounced wear noted. Clean and ready to wear.

Collectible 1980s WilliWear jacket by a celebrated African American designer, whose career was ended much too soon…..