1813 fashion plate showing a 'Witz-chouras' with sleeves, fur lining and hood.
A witzchoura (sometimes witz-chouras) was a type of mantle, pelisse, or sleeved cloak, with a large collar and, sometimes, a hood,[1] that was particularly fashionable in the early 19th century.[1] It was inspired by Polish styles, hence sometimes being described as a la Polonaise,[2] although it is not the same as the gown called a polonaise. Like the original hussar's pelisse, it was typically lined with fur.
The witzchoura is said to have emerged about 1808, soon after Napoleon met with his Polish mistress, Marie Walewska.,[1] and was worn throughout the first half of the 19th century. Versions of the witzchoura were still being worn for travelling in 1849.[3]
^ abcJoannis, Claudette (2007). L'élégance sous l'Empire : Joséphine à Malmaison : Musée national des châteaux de Bois-Préau et Malmaison. Paris: Réunion des Musées nationaux. ISBN9782711851232.