In the Vaffel og Vintage charity shop I saw this interesting garment made of suede. It was 388 NOK (31 GBP, 37 EUR, 41 USD). Unfortunately it was too small :-(
It has no labels so I have no idea where it came from or who made it. Perhaps it's a one off.
A Google image search found an almost identical garment on Etsy described as
Seller's description Specifications May include: Beige suede tunic with floral embroidery and a matching belt. The tunic features a sunflower design on the front and floral patterns on the belt and sleeves. The tag reads "Hecho en Mexico".
Vintage 1970s Handmade Hand-Tooled Leather | Boho Poncho-Style Jacket | Made in Mexico | Artisan Floral Motif Leather Belted Cape Coat | MED
This extraordinary hand-crafted leather poncho-style jacket was made in Mexico during the 1970s, a period when artisanal leatherwork reached a peak of international admiration. Throughout the mid-20th century, Mexican leather artisans were celebrated for their mastery of vegetable-tanned hides, hand-tooling techniques, and narrative surface decoration—skills passed down through generations and deeply rooted in regional folk traditions.
During the 1960s–1970s, hand-tooled Mexican leather garments became highly sought after in the United States and Europe, embraced by travelers, collectors, and designers drawn to their organic beauty and unmistakable handmade character. Unlike factory-produced suede or leather jackets of the era, pieces like this were produced in small workshops or by individual artisans, often without standardized labels—each garment standing as a singular work rather than a repeatable design.
What sets this jacket apart is its storytelling surface. The hand-etched botanical and pastoral motifs—flowers, leaves, butterflies, birds, mushrooms, and landscape elements—are not merely decorative but narrative in nature, evoking a quiet, almost folkloric scene rendered directly into the hide. This type of illustrative leatherwork reflects a crossover between traditional leather tooling and folk art drawing, a hallmark of Mexican artisan garments from this era.
The poncho-inspired silhouette speaks to the 1970s fascination with global craft, natural materials, and fluid, unstructured dressing. Its sculptural drape allows the leather artwork to be fully visible, transforming the garment into a wearable canvas. This is not a trend piece—it is a true artisan artifact, created slowly, intentionally, and without concern for mass production.
Today, jackets of this caliber are increasingly rare, especially in such complete condition. Pieces like this are now sought after not only by vintage collectors, but by stylists, costume designers, and museums for their authenticity, craftsmanship, and unmistakable presence.
Details • Authentic vintage hand-crafted leather jacket • Made in Mexico • Soft suede leather with hand-tooled and etched floral and pastoral motifs • Poncho-style silhouette with sculptural drape • Adjustable belt with matching leather buckle • Snap-front closure • Hand-stitched seams throughout • Unlined or lightly structured interior (artisan construction) • One-of-a-kind surface artwork — no two panels are identical
Measurements*FITS A WOMANS MEDIUM BEST* (please compare to a similar garment for best fit) Shoulder to shoulder: 17" Bust / pit to pit *taken from under the last metal buttons*: 15" Waist *taken across the entire poncho where the belt is centered* : 25" Total length: 28"
Condition Good vintage condition. The leather remains supple and structurally sound with beautiful natural patina consistent with age and handmade tanning. Hand-tooled artwork is clear and well-preserved. Minor tonal variation, a handful of surface marks, along with creases on back, subtle wear is consistent with vintage artisan leather and contribute to the piece’s character. No cracking or damage affecting wearability observed.
Styling Suggestions This piece is endlessly versatile and visually powerful: • Wear over a simple dress or knit for dramatic contrast • Pair with denim and boots for a true 1970s folk revival look • Stunning for editorial styling, film wardrobe, or costume design • Ideal for collectors of artisan leather, folk art fashion, or museum-quality vintage • Displays beautifully as a statement garment or wearable art piece This jacket photographs exceptionally well and commands attention without feeling costume- like—perfect for both modern wardrobes and curated collections.
They want 2 683 NOK for it plus 631 NOK to deliver it. Perhaps I should have bought it after all!
Today's outfit is the excellent Primark winter tights, pink mini, colourful jumper and a rarely worn winter coat.
It's a still and sunny day so despite the temperature being about 0 C I didn't need to wear gloves or do up the coat. Was a bit chilly in the shade though.
@SageWanderer It was so bright today that even walking directly toward the sun was difficult, never mind driving. It's not really cold enough for the ground to freeze so the roads and pavements were damp and shiny with dew reflecting the sun straight into my eyes.
