Original 1940s CC41 3 Piece Blue Pinstripe Suit by 'Arthur Gledhill'

Code: 51715

A fantastic original CC41 three piece blue pinstripe suit made by 'Arthur Glenhill' in Halifax in the 1940s. 

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. Only the waistcoat bears the CC41 utility label although this is not uncommon to find. Whilst the idea behind the CC41 utility clothing scheme was to offer good quality, affordable clothing to everyone, regardless of class or income; there was a certain stigma attached to the label at the time. As it was part of the wartime rationing scheme not everyone liked it, unlike today when it has become a sought after and collectable label. This way of thinking however lead some tailors to only include the label in the waistcoat such as is found on this example. 

The jacket is typical of the era featuring a single breasted, three button front. The pronounced notch lapel, 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 four button cuff. The interior of the jacket is fully lined with black rayon and the original maker's label is still present to the neck and reads 'Arthur Glenhill Halifax'. Inside the interior pocket is another label which has the word name below which is a number which looks like it could be an army serial number. 'R36' is also marked on the label and may relate to size. 

The waistcoat is made from a matching material and features four pockets to the front and a six 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 the usual cinch-back belt and buckle found on waistcoats during this period. 

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 are found at each hip.

The suit will fit someone of around a 38" chest and 30" waist depending on desired fit. When laid flat it measures - 

Jacket 
Chest - 20"
Inside arm - 17 1/2"
Outside arm - 25"
Length - 30 1/2"

Waistcoat 
Chest - 19"
Length - 23 1/2"

Trousers 
Waist - 15 1/2"
Rise - 14"
Rear rise - 18 1/2"
Inside leg - 29 1/2"
Outside leg - 41 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 damage or wear that I can find and overall it presents extremely well. This is however 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!