Code: 53776
A fantastic original three piece blue pinstripe suit made by 'Montague Burton' during the 1940s 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.
This suit is typical of those made in Great Britain during the 1940s. It is made from a blue pinstriped wool which was very popular during this period and hangs beautifully due to its weight. The jacket is typical of the era featuring a single breasted, three button front and a pronounced peak lapel. The short 'bum freezer' length and lack of any rear vents are also common traits of jackets from this period. The jacket features flapped lower pockets, an angled breast pocket and a three button cuff. The interior of the jacket is fully lined with black rayon and a hanging loop is located to the neck. There is a single interior pocket, below which is the classic 1940s Montague Burton label. Inside this pocket the original paper label is still present and bears the montague burton logo as well as the CC41 logo along the top edge - These are just visible in the pictures. It also states the chest size as 38 and the trousers size as 34.
The waistcoat is made from a matching material and features four pockets to the front and a five button closure. The interior is fully lined with a pinstripe material (the same as is used for the sleeve lining of the jacket) and the CC41 label is stitched to it. The rear features no cinch-back belt and buckle which is typical of austerity suits. A section has been added to each side to allow it to fit a larger frame.
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 arelcated to each hip. There is a single rear pocket and inside the trousers the CC41 label is still present and bears the code of X209A.
The suit will fit someone of around a 38" chest and 34" waist depending on desired fit. When laid flat it measures -
Jacket
Chest - 20"
Inside arm - 18 1/2"
Outside arm - 26"
Shoulders - 17"
Length - 29 1/2"
Waistcoat
Chest - 21"
Length - 18 1/2"
Trousers
Waist - 17"
Rise - 14 1/2"
Rear rise - 20"
Inside leg - 31"
Outside leg - 43 1/2"
Cuff - 10"
The suit is in excellent condition as can be seen in the pictures. It is still a nice deep blue colour and has not faded out with washing or exposure to sunlight. There are no signs of serious damage or wear that I can find and overall it presents extremely well. There is one small flaw to the rear of the jacket as detailed in pictures 5 and 6. This is 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.
A fantastic period suit in great condition. This would make a brilliant addition to any wardrobe!
