Blighty Militaria

Tel: 07729 917 773
Email: blightymilitaria@gmail.com
Web site: https://www.blightymilitaria.com/

Original 1950s Grey Flannel Trousers by 'West of England'

SOLD

Code: 51606



A rare pair of original grey flannel trousers made by 'West of England' and in good condition.

Flannel trousers were ubiquitous with menswear from the 1930s through to the mid-1950s and offered a more casual alternative to a suit whilst still being smart. Often teamed with a sports jacket or possibly a blouson jacket, this style of trousers were a staple in many men's wardrobes. In a way they can be liken to jeans today - a casual every day trouser; usually worn to death. This makes grey flannels such as these a rare thing to find today. 

This particular pair date from the 1950s. The key details which date them to this period are the angled slash pockets and the waist adjusters - both details that didn't appear on British menswear until the late 1940s. The trousers are made from a dove grey coloured flannel which is soft yet warm. The trousers are cut in keeping with the period featuring a high rise waist, wide legs and a turn up to the cuff. The fly fastens with buttons as was still commonplace in Great Britain during this period and more buttons are fitted around the inside edge of the waistband to support braces. 

Inside the trousers the original label is still present and is fitted to one of the pocket bags. It features a graphic depicting a bird of prey as well as the manufacturer's name 'West of England'. The words 'ALL WOOL' are also present on the label and are a common sight on labels of this period. 

The trousers are a generous size and when laid flat measure - 

Waist - 19 1/2"
Inside leg - 28 1/2"
Rise - 14 1/2"
Rear rise - 17"
Cuff - 9"

The trousers are in good wearable condition and overall display well. There are a couple of small moth nips as detailed on the pictures and are only noticeable on close inspection. The metal clasps that fasten at the waist also have some tarnishing. Overall the trousers display well but do have small issues commensurate with age. 

All in all a very rare pair of trousers to find today. These would make a great addition to any collection or wardrobe!