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Botany 500

Vintage 80s Slim Fit Tropical Wool Prince of Wales Check Sport Coat 38S

Vintage 80s Slim Fit Tropical Wool Prince of Wales Check Sport Coat 38S

Condition: Secondhand-Excellent

Color: Checkered and Gray

$60.00 USD
$60.00 USD
Sale Sold out
Shipping calculated at checkout.

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  • Reclaimed Style
  • 14-Day Free, No Hassle Returns
  • Fast, Free Shipping (Lower 48)

Editor's Notes

A remarkably preserved 1980s Botany 500 sport coat that brings effortless versatility to any classic wardrobe. The lightweight tropical wool features a unique texturized finish that offers the visual depth of flannel with the breathability needed for warm-weather tailoring. Its charcoal gray Prince of Wales check pairs beautifully across business and smart-casual settings alike.

Measurements and Fit

Measurements:

  • Chest 39 inches
  • Length 29 inches
  • Shoulder 17.5 inches
  • Sleeve 23 inches  
  • Waist 38 inches 
  • Lapel 3.5 inches

Fit: Slim Fit

📌 We recommend comparing the Chest and Sleeve measurements for proper fit.

Details & Care

  • Material: 100% wool
  • Era: 80s
  • Color/Pattern: Gray/Prince of Wales Check
  • Fit: Slim Fit
  • Shoulder: structured shoulder padding
  • Lapel: notched lapel
  • Closure: Single-Breasted, 2-button front
  • Vent: Single vent
  • Sleeve: 4-button cuffs
  • Made in USA
  • Dry clean only

Condition

This item is graded as Secondhand-Excellent with no significant flaws, stains/tears, and/or wear. It has been professionally steamed and prepared in 'The Backroom.' Please refer to our Product Condition & Cleanliness Guide for full grading and cleanliness details. 

Delivery and Returns

Delivery Method: We primarily utilize UPS for reliable delivery, with USPS as our secondary method. To preserve the structure of our tailored items, we never use plastic poly mailers. All orders are shipped using a moisture barrier, zip lock bag in a sustainable, heavy-duty boxes to ensure your items arrive in ready-to-wear condition.

Shipping Options and Rates: We offer shipping tiers:

  • $8.99 ground shipping (lower 48 only) (2-8 days) and $9.99 for AK, HI, and possessions with USPS Ground Advantage (5-21 days).
  • $17.49 flat rate expedited shipping nationwide.
  • Free domestic shipping unlocked for orders $60 and above. (lower 48 only)
  • Free domestic shipping unlocked for orders $100 and above. (AK, HI, and possessions)
  • Free expedited shipping upgrade for all domestic private client VIP members.

Dispatch Speed: We move fast. Orders placed by 11:00 AM EST ship the same day (Mon–Sat).

The Return Policy (14 Days): Try this item in the comfort of your own home. If it doesn't work for your rotation, we accept returns within 14 days of delivery as stipulated below:

  • Item must be returned in the same condition as it was received.

• International Returns : All international sales are final and no returns will be accepted.

Important Exception (Final Sale)To ensure our inventory remains fresh, items marked "Final Sale" or purchased from the "Last Call" collection are yours to keep and are not eligible for return.

Find out more about our delivery options and our Return and Refunds.

View full details

Style & Fit Notes

This Botany 500 tropical wool sport coat represents the enduring excellence of vintage American tailoring, showcasing a refined approach to pattern and texture. The Prince of Wales check is an absolute staple of the traditional Ivy League wardrobe, carrying a storied history that communicates quiet confidence.

For a sophisticated high-low mix, skip the traditional corporate shirt and tie. Instead, pair this slim-fit jacket with a crisp white polo or an oxford cloth button-down, dark denim or clean olive chinos, and rich brown leather loafers. The texturized tropical wool gives it a relaxed traditional character that adapts flawlessly from warm-weather office environments to weekend travel.

Measuring true to a vintage 38S, it offers a trim silhouette through the chest and waist compared to a fuller traditional cut, making it a perfect acquisition for the discerning buyer who appreciates historic craftsmanship with a modern fit profile.

The Backroom

Beyond the racks. Explore the reclaimed gems that mirror the cut and quality of this item below.

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Gentleman's Guide & Care

  • Trust the tape, not the tag.
    Sizing varies wildly depending on the brand, the era, and the intended fit (e.g., 'Slim Fit' vs. 'Traditional Cut'). A size 42 tag means very different things on a modern Italian jacket versus a classic American blazer.

    The Golden Rule:

    1. Find your benchmark: Take a jacket you own that fits the way you like.
    2. Measure it: Lay it flat and check the Chest (Pit-to-Pit) and Shoulders.
    3. Compare: Match those numbers to our listing.

    Need a tutorial?

    Visit our Measuring Guide to see exactly how we measure (including our specific method for Sleeve Length and Front Length ) so you can measure your own jacket the same way.

    For additional sizing advice, read our article How to Measure a Secondhand Sport Coat to Ensure a Good Fit, which explains how to compare measurements, understand jacket sizing, and evaluate fit before purchasing.

  • Almost certainly. A sport coat is sold as a 'framework' meant to be adjusted to your specific body.

    What to Expect:
    Most pre-owned jackets will require minor tweaks—usually sleeve length or waist suppression—to achieve a perfect fit. We list the 'Sleeve Allowance' (extra fabric inside the cuff) so you know exactly how much room your tailor has to work with.

  • We ship to preserve the structure.
    We use spacious boxes to ensure the shoulder pads and canvas chest pieces (if half-canvas or full canvas) are not crushed during transit. We never stuff a tailored jacket into a tight poly mailer.

    Upon Arrival:
    Wool may relax during shipping. We recommend hanging the jacket immediately to let the fibers breathe and shed any minor shipping creases.

  • As little as possible.

    Frequent chemical cleaning strips natural fibers (like wool and silk) of their oils, making them brittle and dull.

    Our Recommendation:

    • Daily: Brush your jacket with a natural horsehair brush after every wear to remove dust.
    • Wrinkles: Steam it or hang it in a bathroom. Never iron wool directly.
    • Cleaning: Only dry clean if there is a visible stain. A good wool jacket essentially cleans itself if allowed to rest between wears.

    Want the full routine?
    Read our Garment Care Guide to learn why 'Benign Neglect' is the secret to making your wardrobe last forever.

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