1970s Bill Gibb Black Mink Capelet

Extremely rare and thus very collectible vintage black mink fur capelet by Bill Gibb, from the mid 1970s.

This is a truly spectacular piece. Throw it over your shoulders and close with three hidden hook and eyes to the front. The construction is outstanding, consisting of four ribbed panels (chevron bands); these are cut diagonally to form a diamond shape to front and back. Lined in black damask and trimmed with mink tails. Bill Gibb label, along with labels for Imperial Black Mink and Marie Claire of Bond Street.

British designer Bill Gibb was the most famous knitwear creator of the 1970s. Having trained at St Martin's School of Art and then at the Royal College, Gibb had a strong understanding of fashion when he set up his own company in 1972. Gibb's pieces were unconventional, with inspiration coming from folk costumes, romanticism and historical dress. His work was highly innovative in his use of textures, weaves and patterns, and mixing different materials and colours.