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Coat by Jean Muir

A life in fashion

The Look

"Any colour, as long as it’s navy-blue!"
- Jean Muir

Jean Muir created her own ‘look’, based on signature fabrics, colours and details. She excelled in making technically complex designs that appeared simple and sensual when worn.

Muir’s signature materials were matte jersey, wool crepe, suede and leather. Muir’s work also featured a strict attention to detail such as top-stitching, pin-tucking and use of hand-crafted buttons. Muir is most famous for her use of navy-blue and black, but she was also a fantastic colourist.

Attention to detail

"I design clothes which I hope any British woman would be happy to wear"
- Jean Muir

Muir’s superlative cut and attention to detail led to her being called ‘the greatest dressmaker in the world’.

Muir’s designs were generally made for the ready-to-wear market, rather than for individual clients. She placed great emphasis on highly skilled cutting, fitting and making techniques.

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National Museums Scotland, Scottish Charity, No. SC 011130