Scarce Original WW2 SOE 'Striptease' Camouflage Jumpsuit

A rare original Special Operations Executive 'Striptease' Jumpsuit which dates from the Second World War. 

This pattern of camouflage overalls was produced specifically for the SOE during WW2 and also saw use with American OSS agents. It was designed as an all-in-one coverall which was to be worn over the clothing of the agent whilst parachuting into enemy occupied territory. The clothing underneath would have been specially chosen, and often made to fit in with the locals, in whichever area the agent was being dropped. The suit features a pocket which houses a spade which was included so that the agent could bury the suit in the ground once landing, leaving them in their civilian attire. 

The suit is made from a cotton canvas material that features a khaki field which has a factory applied green and brown camouflage pattern to it. The front fastens with two full length zips which are both the original 'D.O.T' branded examples. Both pullers bear the maker's initials as well as the words 'Made in England' and both of the leather pull tabs are also still present. There is another zip to the fly which again bears the same markings and its original leather pull tab. There is a large rear pocket which is fitted with a stretcher pillow. This is accessed from the inside of the suit. There is also a pocket to the lower portion of the left sleeve which are often removed. Both of the main body zippers are designed so the the pullers can be puller past the runners at the top of their travel. This enables the front of the suit to fall away completely from the wearer and be discarded - Hence the nickname 'Striptease Suit'. 

The suit is in good condition for its age with no serious signs of wear or use. Overall it displays very well with the camouflage colours still being strong and bold with some areas of fading which are evident in the pictures. Both zips work as they should. There is a small break to the left side (as viewed) of the left zip (as worn) which is illustrated in picture 5. This does not affect the functionality of the zip but is included for thoroughness. The fly zip is also missing a single tooth which is illustrated in picture 7. There is some surface corrosion to the metalwork throughout but this can be cleaned off. The two press studs which fasten the access flap to the pillow pocket at the rear have pulled through their cotton tape (picture 13) but this does no affect the way the suit displays. There are some limited signs of on the suit from long term storage which is to be expected. It still displays very well but please take time to study the pictures before purchasing as this is a vintage, pre-owned item which has some small flaws commensurate with age.

A fantastic piece of original kit from the Second World War which would make an excellent addition to any collection. 

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