Original 1951 Dated WRAC Battledress Blouse - Size 1 - ATS

An original 1951 dated Women's Royal Army Corps Battledress Blouse which is identical to the wartime Auxiliary Territorial Service pattern jacket. 

This pattern of jacket was introduced in the middle of the Second World War as an austerity pattern which replaced the original pattern of uniform. Whilst dated 1951, this jacket is identical to those made during WW2 and would therefore make an acceptable stand-in for a war dated example. It is a simplified design which made it cheaper to produce and like the men's austerity pattern jacket, it features exposed buttons throughout, rather than fly-covered. The design is modelled on that used for the men's battledress uniform but is made from a finer, lighter weight saxony serge wool. The blouse features chest pockets and the waist belt is fastened with a chromium plated buckle as was introduced on men's battldress from 1941 onwards. The jacket has been fitted with Women's Royal Army Corps shoulder titles along with Highland District Scottish Command formation badges.

Inside the jacket the original issue label is affixed. It bears the title of 'Blouses, Battledress, Serge, W.R.A.C' and the size of 1 which is designed to fit a 32" - 35" bust and a 24" - 27" waist. The maker's name is stated as 'The West Auckland Clothing Co Ltd' below which is the date of 1951 and the War Department broad arrow. 

When laid flat the jacket measures - 

Chest - 19 1/2"
Inside arm - 17"
Outside arm - 23"
Shoulders - 15"
Length at rear - 19"

The overall condition of the jacket is good overall. There is a hole to the rear and also a long repair which runs parallel to the centre seam. Overall the jacket displays well and is totally wearable. Please study the pictures and remember that these are a vintage, pre worn jacket which may have small issues commensurate with age. 

A good example of this scarce pattern of battledress which could suit a reenactor or a collector as a stand-in for a war dated example.

This is a vintage item which is 'sold as seen'