Original 1953 Dated British Army Denim Battledress Blouse - Size 9

An original British Army Denim Battledress Blouse dated 1953 and in unworn condition.

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, the design closely followed the serge Battledress introduced in 1940 but was made from denim and had removable buttons. This is a second pattern or 'austerity' version which does not feature the pleated pockets of the first pattern jacket.

The jacket features brown-green coloured revolving shank buttons which are held on with period brass split rings to the reverse. The waist fastens with a steel buckle which is held onto the jacket with green plastic buttons.

Inside the jacket the original label is still present and states the manufacturer as 'Raencrest Ltd'. The size is marked as 9 which is designed to fit a 38-40" chest and a 33-35" waist. The 1955 date is also present as is the War Department broad arrow marking. The title features the designation C.D.33 which suggests this was originally intended to be issued to members of the Civil Defence. 

The War Department acceptance stamp can be found adjacent to the makers label which is surmounted by the letter 'L' which denotes the year of issue.

The jacket is in very good condition and appears to be a new old stock unworn example. It displays very well but is a vintage item so may have small issues commensurate with age. 

Altogether a very nice example of a Denim Battledress Blouse!