Code: 54082
An original RAF War Service Dress battledress blouse jacket dated 1945 which is a rare large size 15.
This pattern of jacket came into service in late 1940 listed as 'Suits, Aircrew' before being re-designated 'War Service Dress' in 1943, remaining virtually unchanged. The blouse features the wire style waist buckle sometimes associated with early manufacture 'Suits, Aircrew' blouses, RAF style scalloped pocket flaps, black plastic buttons all round and a pair of hook and eyes to fasten the neck.
The blouse is fitted with original wartime economy printed eagle badges to the top of each sleeve with blue backed stripes below this. A nice original Air Gunner brevet is fitted to the breast. Some or all of the badges are almost certainly post-war additions.
Inside the jacket the original label is intact and is bright and legible. It bears the title of 'War Service Dress Blouse' below which is the size of 15 which is designed to fit up to a 42" chest and a 38" waist. The maker's name of 'Astin Bros Ltd' is also present, as is the 1945 date and the War Department broad arrow marking.
The condition of the blouse is very good. It is still a nice deep blue colour and not a heavily worn faded out grey like many offered on the market. The blue indigo lining shows a few areas of soiling from storage and there are two small holes to the rear which are illustrated in the pictures. Overall it is a very fresh example but please do study the pictures before purchasing.
A very nice original RAF WSD blouse in good condition and in a hard to find large size.
