Vintage 1960 Tailcoat Ryder & Amies Cambridge Bespoke White Tie Tails

This bespoke formal tailcoat was made by Ryder & Amies of Cambridge and is dated July 1960 on the original tailor’s label with the original owner’s name. Ryder & Amies, founded in 1864, is well known for traditional British tailoring, academic dress, and formalwear serving the University of Cambridge community.

This coat is a classic white tie formal evening tailcoat, featuring structured shoulders, wide peaked lapels faced with faille (fine grosgrain), a fitted waist, cutaway front, and long tails at the back. The overall design reflects traditional British ceremonial and formal tailoring of the mid-20th century and would have been worn for formal university occasions, ceremonies, or white tie evening dress.

The interior construction is particularly notable for its extensive quilted padding at the underarm areas, a high-quality tailoring detail used to improve structure, comfort, and durability.

Please note this listing is for the tailcoat only — no trousers or accessories are included.

Measurements

Because this coat was custom made, there is no size tag, but it should fit approximately a medium size. Please refer to the measurements below for fit.

Tailcoat
Shoulders: 18”
Sleeves: 25 1/2”
Sleeve inseam: 18”
Chest: 42”
Waist: 40”
Overall length (front): 21" to cutaway point
Tail length (from centre back neck seam): 41”

Condition

Very good condition. No pronounced wear, tear, staining, soiling, or odour. Sleeve lining is slightly yellowed at the armpit and the right upper armpit lining has a small fray hole.

About Ryder & Amies

Ryder & Amies has been outfitting Cambridge students and academics since 1864 and is known for traditional British tailoring, formalwear, and academic robes. Bespoke garments from the firm are well made and represent classic British ceremonial tailoring.

This is a wonderful example of early 1960s British bespoke formal tailoring and a piece of Cambridge tailoring history.