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Original Early WW2 First Pattern Denim Battledress Blouse
SOLD
Code: 51181
A fine original example of an early Second World War Denim Battledress Blouse in a large size.
Introduced at the beginning of the Second World War as a replacement for the earlier fatigues issued in the Great War and inter-war periods, it closely followed the design of the Battledress introduced in 1940 but was made from denim and had removable buttons.
This jacket is an early issue example which was only made prior to 1942 when it was superseded by the austerity pattern. The most obvious feature of the first pattern jacket is the pleated chest pockets. The material is also a different hue to post-war manufactured items.
The jacket features the correct early wire waist buckle which is held on with two piece brass buttons as are often found on early manufactured items. As well as this the jacket is fitted with a set of the correct early war flat type revolving shank buttons.
Sadly the original label is no longer present although there is clear evidence of where it was original attached. The jacket is certainly one of the largest sizes produced during the war and when laid flat measures -
Chest - 24"
Waist - 19"
Inside arm - 19"
Outside arm - 26"
Shoulders - 18 1/2"
The jacket is in excellent condition with no real signs of wear or use. It is still a deep colour as it would have been original and not a washed-out example. The only small flaw I can find is a mark to the rear of the right hand sleeve as pictured. This may come out but I have not attempted to do anything with it.
All in all a great example of this early war pattern of blouse with all the right features and fittings. Not only that but it is a good wearable size meaning it would suit both a re-enactor or collector!
