2003 Neil Barrett Mock-Vest Parka

Neil Barrett is one of those designers that simply just doesn’t get the credit he deserves. After graduating from Central Saint Martins he was recruited by Gucci, working as a Senior Menswear Designer, crossing over into the Tom Ford era. After 5 years with Gucci he decided to approach Patrizio Bertelli, CEO of Prada, with an idea that would change the course of the brand: Prada Menswear. He created the first Prada menswear collection in 1996, setting the precedent for the minimalist luxury style that Prada still embodies today. He also created the Prada Sport line, easily the most experimental and influential diffusion line that has ever been created by a luxury fashion house. After an exceptional period at Prada, he decided it was time for a new challenge and left to create his own eponymous label in 2000. During this time he also worked at the forefront of Samsonite’s ‘black label’ line which was an experimental outlet for Barrett where he could combine his expert tailoriing with his functional concepts. The design language portrayed during his time at Gucci, Prada and Samsonite all transferred across to his own label, producing pieces that offered a technical twist to classic styles and paying particular attention to fabric development. 

This unique piece from the early 2000s is a very good example of that, taking a classic Prada-style long coat and reworking it with a functional twist. The base of the piece is a long coat that is constructed from a nylon that is very similar to Prada’s signature nylon material. There is also a wool vest - modelled after a life-vest - stitched over the long coat to give the appearance that there are 2 seperate pieces. However, the life vest blends seamlessly upwards into the hood. It comes equipped with a whistle and a fake inflatable system which is just for looks. The bottom of the vest also works to conceal the hand pockets.

Great condition with minor signs of wear - whistle is loose.

Measurements: 

Pit to pit: 23”

Shoulder to hem: 32”