When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
What You’ll Love
A distinctive 1940s tailored jacket in a richly textured red, black and white plaid, finished with decorative red braided trim and three elaborate floral frog closures.
The substantial, nubby woven cotton has a tweed-like appearance, while carefully placed darts shape the waist and create a flattering, fitted silhouette. The short length, upright neckline and intricate braided closures give this piece unmistakable mid-century character.
Originally sold by Junior Dress Shop of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, this jacket is a wonderful example of the individuality found in specialty-boutique clothing of the period.
Fully lined in black acetate, with no shoulder pads. An exceptionally well-preserved piece in excellent condition.
AI Image Disclosure: The AI-generated model photograph is provided for styling and approximate fit visualization only. Please refer to the original photographs for exact color, plaid placement, closures, construction and condition.
Details
Vintage 1940s women's jacket
Junior Dress Shop — Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Red, black and white woven plaid
Heavyweight nubby cotton with a tweed-like texture
Three decorative red floral frog closures
Red braided trim along the neckline, front opening, cuffs and hem
Short, fitted silhouette
Shaped waist darts
Upright open neckline
Long sleeves
Fully lined in black acetate
No shoulder pads
Approximately hip-length, depending on height
Size & Fit
Estimated Modern Size: Women's Small–Medium, approximately US 6–8.
The jacket has a fitted waist and structured silhouette rather than a relaxed contemporary cut.
The stated bust circumference is 38", with a 32" waist. Please compare the measurements with a well-fitting jacket, allowing sufficient ease for the intended underlayer.
Approximate Measurements
Measurement
Size: S/M
Bust circumference:38"
Waist circumference:32"
Shoulders:15"
Length from shoulder:20"
Sleeve from shoulder:23"
Condition
Vintage 1940s Junior Dress Shop red and black plaid cotton jacket in excellent vintage condition.
The woven fabric retains its rich color and texture, and the decorative red frog closures and braided edging are beautifully preserved.
The black acetate lining is intact. No stains, holes, significant wear or other flaws noted.
An exceptionally clean example of period specialty-boutique clothing.
Behind the Label
The original embroidered label reads Junior Dress Shop — Harrisburg, PA, accompanied by an illustrated parasol motif.
Independent specialty dress shops played an important role in American women's fashion during the mid-20th century, offering carefully selected garments and distinctive styles beyond the merchandise carried by larger department stores.
This jacket reflects the decorative tailoring associated with the 1940s: a shaped waist, compact silhouette, textured woven fabric and ornamental closures that provide both function and visual interest.
Its braided floral frogs and contrasting trim also lend it a subtle Eastern-inspired quality, a design influence that appeared periodically in Western fashion throughout the first half of the twentieth century.
Costuming a Film, Theater, or Creative Project?
Costuming a film, theater or creative project? The fitted silhouette, plaid textile and decorative closures make this a wonderful choice for a 1940s society woman, stylish wartime civilian, boutique shopper or postwar character.
Think the polished period wardrobes of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Allied, The Notebook or Mildred Pierce.
Contact Miss Kitty for additional period pieces. We have extensive vintage inventory not yet listed and can assist with coordinated wardrobes and volume purchases for film, theater and creative productions.
• Thank you for shopping with The Cat’s Pajamas Vintage.
• Please contact Miss Kitty with any questions prior to purchase. We are happy to provide additional details, measurements, or photographs upon request.
• All sales are final. Vintage items are one-of-a-kind and sold as-is. Any condition issues are fully disclosed in the listing; otherwise, items are in excellent vintage condition for their age.
• Orders ship within 2 business days (often the same or next business day). Expedited shipping is available by selecting the appropriate shipping option at checkout, where applicable.
• International buyers are responsible for all customs duties, import taxes, or fees. All shipments are accurately declared in compliance with customs regulations.
• Please note that vintage garments may carry light residual scents from prior storage or a freshly maintained studio environment.
