Code: 55221
A fantastic original CC41 two piece suit made during the 1940s from a moss brown coloured wool with a subtle orange overcheck.
This suit is best described as a 'sports suit' due to the casual nature of the cut which makes it more rare and desirable than your average suit from this period. It was made as part of the CC41 utility 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. There is a stub of the original CC41 label left inside the jacket (picture 12) which confirms this. These labels were often removed from clothing at the time as there was some stigma attached to it. Today however, it has become a highly collectible and coveted label!
The jacket is typical of the era featuring a single breasted, three button front. The pronounced notch lapel, short 'bum freezer' length and lack of any rear vents are also common traits of jackets from this period. The jacket features flapped pockets to the skirt, an angled breast pocket and a three button cuff. The interior of the jacket is fully lined with a brown coloured rayon and there is a single interior pocket.
The trousers are again a classic example of 1940s British tailoring. They feature a high rise waist, wide leg with turn up to the cuff and a button fly. More buttons are fitted around the top edge to which braces can be attached and there is a single pocket to the rear. The front of the trousers feature twin pleats and slash pockets are found at each hip. Of particular note however is the addition of a separate waistband and belt loops which are an uncommon feature on suits during this period and are usually only seen on sports trousers such as cricket flannels. As well as this there are waist adjusters fitted to each hip and a large ticket pocket to the front right as worn meaning these trousers really do have all the details one could wish for!
The suit will fit someone of around a 40" chest and 35" waist depending on desired fit. When laid flat it measures -
Jacket
Chest - 22 1/2"
Inside arm - 18 1/2"
Outside arm - 26"
Shoulders - 18 3/4"
Length - 29 1/2"
Trousers
Waist - 17 1/2"
Rise - 14 1/2"
Rear rise - 17"
Inside leg - 30"
Outside leg - 41"
Cuff - 10 1/2"
The suit is in good condition as can be seen in the pictures. There are no signs of serious damage or undue wear that I can find and overall it presents extremely well with some signs of use etc. This is however a vintage, pre-worn suit which is over 70 years old and may therefore have small issues commensurate with age. Please take time to study the pictures before purchasing.
A fantastic period suit in nice condition. This would make a brilliant addition to any wardrobe!
