A literary presence, at home among old cafés and historic interiors.
But this coat offers more than a nostalgic way of dressing.

A black cape spreading from the shoulders.
A long silhouette falling towards the hem.
Its bold outline feels equally compelling in contemporary avant-garde fashion.

This Japanese vintage tonbi coat dates to around the early Showa period and retains its Matsuzakaya label. Also known as niju-mawashi (二重廻し), a tonbi is an Inverness-style cape coat: a long body beneath a cape covering the shoulders and arms.

For those drawn to Taisho Roman or contemporary monochrome dressing, it offers both historical character and a striking silhouette.

At a glance: Black wool outer fabric · Length 128 cm / 50.4 in · Flat underarm width 59.5 cm / 23.4 in · One available · US$490 with free shipping.

Please note: Small holes are present in several places, with some soiling on the lining. This garment has not been washed or dry-cleaned by us. Please read the condition notes and examine the photographs before ordering.

Japanese Vintage, Worn with a Contemporary Eye

Japanese vintage clothing is increasingly appreciated by international vintage enthusiasts not simply for its age or materials, but for distinctive forms shaped by Japan’s own clothing culture. The tonbi embodies that appeal.

Its presence bridges Japanese and Western dress. For those drawn to Taisho Roman, the romantic, eclectic aesthetic associated with Japan’s Taisho era, it offers a classical silhouette. For those who favour avant-garde fashion, its deep black colour and generous shape offer a different way to build a contemporary wardrobe.

Taisho Roman describes the styling sensibility here, not the production date: this coat dates to around the early Showa period. Enjoy that romantic aesthetic while wearing an original vintage garment on your own terms.

The defining feature is its double-layer construction: a cape wrapping the shoulders above a long coat body. At 128 cm / 50.4 in long, it creates a continuous expanse of black from collar to hem when closed, with a quiet, composed presence.

Worn open, space appears between the long outer panels and the clothes beneath, giving the same garment a lighter expression. As the photographs show, it sits naturally over a simple white T-shirt and navy trousers.

Not something reserved for costume, but an outer layer that gives everyday clothing a distinctive outline. An old Japanese garment, worn with a contemporary eye.

Look Beneath the Cape

Buttoned flap pockets are arranged in two different orientations, one horizontal and one vertical. There is also an additional small pocket.

That difference in pocket direction is a subtle but memorable detail. It gives the coat an interest that cannot be understood from its exterior alone: the appeal of a garment made to be used. Together with the Matsuzakaya label, these details offer a reason to look beyond the silhouette.

Rather than a newly made interpretation of retro clothing, this is an original garment from the period, ready to become part of your own way of dressing. Choosing a piece you want to keep, rather than replacing it with each passing trend, is part of the pleasure of slow fashion.

One available. The condition, label and details shown belong to the actual coat offered here.

Product Details

• Type: Tonbi coat / niju-mawashi (二重廻し), an Inverness-style cape coat
• Label: Matsuzakaya
• Era: Around the early Showa period
• Outer fabric: Wool
• Colour: Black
• Construction: Long coat body with an overlapping shoulder cape
• Pockets: Horizontal and vertical buttoned flap pockets, plus an additional small pocket
• Fastenings: Front buttons and a neck fastening

Styling Suggestions

For a Taisho Roman-inspired outfit, pair it with a collared shirt, waistcoat and relaxed trousers. A hat and leather shoes bring out its classical character.

For an avant-garde approach, wear it over a black high-neck top and wide-leg trousers. A restrained colour palette lets the different textures and volume of the cape define the outfit.

A white T-shirt and navy trousers, as shown in the photographs, offer a more relaxed interpretation. Enjoy it as part of a present-day wardrobe rather than feeling obliged to recreate a historical outfit.

Measurements & Fit

• Length, back neckline to hem: 128 cm / 50.4 in
• Width, measured flat across the underarms: 59.5 cm / 23.4 in

The width above is a flat garment measurement, not a body chest measurement. Compare these measurements with a coat you own, allowing space for the layers you intend to wear underneath.

Please allow for minor measurement differences.
Model height: 171 cm / approximately 5 ft 7 in.

Condition — Please Read Before Ordering

Small holes are present in several places. There is some soiling on the lining.

No strong or particularly noticeable odour was detected at the time of inspection. However, this is an old garment, not a new item. Sensitivity to odours varies. Please take its age, vintage character and possible storage-related odours into consideration before ordering.

This coat has not been washed or dry-cleaned by us. If cleaning is required, please consult a specialist experienced in handling vintage wool garments.

Please order only if you understand and accept the nature of old clothing.

Damage, the re-emergence of odours, or other changes arising from washing or wearing after purchase are not covered by refunds or exchanges.

For questions about sizing, returns and customs, please visit our FAQ.

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