Daniel Hechter Paris Prince of Wales Culottes — c. 1980s

A little menswear, a lot of femininity. These vintage Daniel Hechter Paris culottes are cut in a warm Prince of Wales check, woven with burgundy, charcoal and cream accents. The fitted high waist gives way to deep pleats and exceptionally wide legs, creating the illusion of an elegant midi skirt when standing and revealing their true culotte construction in movement.

Made in France from a substantial wool blend and fully lined in acetate, with slanted pockets and a distinctive metal D-ring at the waist.

Founded in Paris in 1962, Daniel Hechter helped bring designer-led fashion into the world of French ready-to-wear. This circa-1980s piece captures that spirit beautifully: classic tailoring made modern, wearable and distinctly feminine.

Styling
Lean into the masculine-feminine contrast: pair with a fluid ivory blouse and cognac pumps, or keep it simple with fine knitwear and loafers. Let the dramatic, skirt-like cut do the talking.

MEASUREMENTS (LAID FLAT)

Labelled vintage size 40.
Modern fit: FR 34–36 • EU 32–34 • UK 6–8 • US 2–4 , depending on desired fit. Please refer to the garment measurements below:

Waist: 33 cm / 13 in flat — 66 cm / 26 in circumference
Hips: 46 cm / 18.1 in flat — 92 cm / 36.2 in circumference
Rise: 37 cm / 14.6 in
Inseam: 39 cm / 15.4 in
Total length: 69 cm / 27.2 in
Lined leg opening: 35 cm / 13.8 in flat

Composition: 62% wool • 38% polyester
Lining: 100% acetate
Made in France

Condition
Very good vintage condition. The outer fabric presents beautifully. A few small age-related marks remain on the interior lining and are not visible when worn.

Did you know? Daniel Hechter’s influence reached beyond fashion. As president of Paris Saint-Germain in the 1970s, he designed the club’s now-iconic “Hechter” shirt, first worn in 1973.

Selected through the Vintage Christal Heritage Archive — every piece is chosen for craftsmanship, character and enduring elegance.