Code: 54233
An original 1940s cotton collarless shirt by 'Banner' which was made under the CC41 utility clothing scheme which was brought into effect in the UK in 1941 as part of the larger rationing scheme. The idea behind it was that affordable, quality clothing would be available to everyone of every class and could be bought using coupons.
This style of shirt was extremely popular with men in the first part of the 20th Century. Made from a thick yet soft oatmeal coloured flannel, the shirt is cut long in the body for warmth, wide in the chest to aid in pulling of the wearer's head when dressing and features a neckband collar. Attached collar shirts were available from the 1930s onwards, but only became common in the late 1940s with men predominantly wearing this style with a detachable collar.
The original label is still present inside the shirt and features the CC41 logo below which is the maker's name of 'Banner' along with their graphics.
The shirt is a small size which will suit around a 34" chest. When laid flat it measures -
Chest - 19 1/2"
Inside arm - 17 1/2"
Outside arm - 21 1/2"
Shoulders - 16"
Collar 13 1/2"
The shirt is in worn condition with some staining and signs of wear and age. It is still very wearable but is far from perfect so please take time to study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that it is a vintage item with some flaws commensurate with age.
This would also make an ideal addition to a Home Guard display as they wore their civilian shirts underneath their uniform.
