Three fashion models wearing waterproof coats, circa 1965. (Photo by Jamie Hodgson/Getty Images)
Synonymous with mid-century fashion, patent, high-shine, and vinyl materials were all the rage, especially in the swinging sixties — think white Pierre Cardin mod coats cut to the thigh and knee-high boots along Carnaby Street and Kings Road. Subject to retro and contemporary adaptions over the years, the look is still popular today, and it’s having a bit of a moment again on the catwalk and the high street.
Three fashion models wearing waterproof clothing, circa 1965. (Photo by Jamie Hodgson/Getty Images)
: For that vintage '60s vibe, look no further than this gorgeous coat by French fashion house Courrèges. This short vinyl coat is a fitted silhouette and an upper belt, typical of the 1960s. Go full look and team with the coordinating vinyl mini skirt.
Heritage Vinyl Coat by Courrèges
: For more of a subtle way to incorporate the look, try this mini envelope clutch from Saint Laurent, which's made from leather and dons a high shine finish. The style is also available in a black colorway.
Red Paloma Patent Leather Envelope Pouch by Saint Laurent
: Carel Paris knows its '60s-shaped footwear with a collection that pays homage to the decade, including this Mary-Jane style. There are high, low, and flat versions in tons of colors, from cherry-red to black and block color combinations too.
Red Alice Mary-Jane Shoes by Carel Paris
: A thoroughly modern take on patent leather, which you’d expect from The Attico. This mini dress is made from super glossy patent leather draped and creased down the body, a sweetheart neckline, and an asymmetric hem.
Hania Patent Leather Minidress by The Attico
: For a minimal mule, this pair by London-based Mo D'accori is made in Italy from black patent leather with a touch of silver-tone metal hardware to add some edge.
Black Heat 100 Patent-Leather Mules by D'ACCORI
: Reselfridges is a range of pre-loved items from, you've guessed it, Selfridges., and it's part of its Project Earth scheme, a sustainability initiative for the eco-consciousness shopper. Included in the offering is this classic quilted Chanel bag, in black patent leather.
Logo-Embellished Patent-Leather Cross-Body Bag by RESELFRIDGES
: A sexy leather and patent leather dress, this skims the body and falls to just below the knee. There's a cut out just under the bust and thin spaghetti straps to show the flesh and give an updated take on a ‘90s look.
Sketching Cutout Faux Smooth and Patent-Leather Midi Dress by Staud
: Add a sweet touch of patent via this romantic heart-shaped cross-body bag by Alaïa.
Le Couer Heart-Shaped Patent Leather Cross-Body Bag by ALAÏA
: For a statement glossy skirt, this one from FRAME is mini in cut and is made from faux patent leather. Wear it with trainers (like the style from Carel) to make it more daytime casual.
Le Mini Faux Patent-Leather Mini Pencil Skirt by FRAME
: Crafted in Italy from patent leather, these Saint Laurent boots are a future classic that you'll wear all year round. It dons a block heel, square toes and a contemporary take on gold-tone horse-bit detailing.
Black Beau Patent Leather Boots by Saint Laurent
: Transitioning to a 1970s vibe, this jacket combines fluffiness and shine. Cut to the hip, it features button fastenings through a double-breasted front.
Melendy Faux Shearling-Trimmed Faux Patent-Leather Jacket by Stand Studio
: Chocolate brown is the season's color, and Whistles now has a long-line patent leather skirt so that you can be right on trend. Team with the chunky camel jumper and boots. The style is also available in black.
Rachel Patent Leather Skirt by Whistles
: Dodo doesn’t just offer fabulous resort wear for sunny climes; just check out this oh-so-glamorous leather and shearling coat. The statement collar is balanced with the chunky hem and deep pockets. Ideal for the Snow Polo in St. Moritz.
Shearling-Trimmed Patent Leather Coat by Dodo Bar Or