Original 1950s RAF Officer's Collarless Shirt - Size 14 1/2

Original 1950s RAF Officer's Collarless Shirt - Size 14 1/2"

Code: 54006

SOLD

An original RAF officers shirt in good condition which most likely dates from the early 1950s.

This pattern of shirt was worn by RAF officers for many years. It is the full buttoning front style which began to come into use during the Second World War before eventually replacing the half-placket style completely by the 1960s. This example may date from the 1940s as Alkit did not change their logo for a number of years. It is made from the standard blue coloured end-on-end cotton and features a double cuff which is designed to be worn with cufflinks. The collar is neckband style, to which a detachable collar can be fastened. 

Inside the shirt the original label is still present and bears the maker's name of 'Alkit'. The collar size of 14 1/2 has been stamped directly to the neckband collar in black ink.

The shirt is a smaller size which will fit  someone of around a 36" to 38" chest depending on desired fit and when laid flat it measures - 

Chest - 22"
Inside arm - 24"
Outside arm - 26 1/2"
Shoulders - 17"
Length - 35"
Collar - 14 1/2"

The sleeve measurement is taken with the cuff folded out. If the cuff is doubled back in the correct manner it will measure roughly 2 1/2" shorter.

The shirt is in good condition but does have some signs of wear, and some limited staining etc. It is still very wearable but is not a perfect example. Please study the pictures and bear in mind that this is a pre-owned, vintage item which may have small issues commensurate with age.

Overall a nice original shirt which would be ideal for a reenactor who wants to wear the correct original items or a collector to add to an RAF officer collection.