Tail Coat
Artifact IDMO 2009.3.257.1
Object Type
Coat
Date
1955-1963
Maker
unknown
Medium
wool
DimensionsOverall L 45 in (114.3 cm )
Physical DescriptionBlack napped wool twill weave tail coat. Single breasted coat with single button placed above waist seam, a left lapel buttonhole and a notched rolled collar. Coat has front opening curves to the back and extends into split tails below waist seam.
Historical NoteThis black wool tailcoat, featuring silk-faced peak lapels, is paired with a single-breasted, dove-grey fine wool waistcoat. President Kennedy frequently chose this specific ensemble, utilizing the grey vest to introduce a modern, "Camelot" sophistication to the traditional formal silhouette. Complemented by a white wing-collar shirt and silk bow tie, this attire remains a definitive example of 20th-century presidential elegance and mid-century American tailoring.
Additional DetailsCustodial History NoteThis tail coat was previously owned by John F. Kennedy. It was received by the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in 1995 and held in courtesy storage until it was donated in 2009 by the Estate of Jacqueline Kennedy through the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation
Credit LineJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation
National Archives Catalog CollectionJohn F. Kennedy Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676934)
National Archives Catalog SeriesJohn F. Kennedy Personal Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676959)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - PartlyUse Restriction Notepermission to use image must be granted by the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. please address requests to Museumjfk@nara.govUse Restriction Noteimage use is to be approved of by Museum staff on a case by case basis, image is not for sale by Getty, Almay, or other profit seeking photography sites.In Collection(s)
Not on view