Militaria Zone

Dealer Information

Dealer: Blighty Militaria
Location: London, United Kingdom
Tel: 07729 917 773
Email: blightymilitaria@gmail.com

Rare Original Early WW2 1st Pattern British Denim Battledress Trousers

SOLD

Code: 53540

Website: https://www.militariazone.com/trousers-shorts/rare-original-early-ww2-1st-pattern-british-denim-battledress-trousers/itm37716

A fantastic pair of original early WW2 British Army Drill Fatigue trousers in great condition. 

These trousers were made as part of the two piece fatigue battledress set which was designed to be worn over the top of the wool battledress. Often this style is universally referred to as 'Denim' although they were also manufactured in cotton drill and labelled as 'drill'. 

This battledress design was introduced in 1938 and replaced the earlier fatigues issued during the Great War and inter-war period.  These trousers are an early issue example which was only made prior to 1942 when they were superseded by the austerity pattern. The trousers are cut in the same way as their denim counterparts with a wide leg and a high rise. They feature a double pleated first field dressing pocket to the right hip which fastens with a stamped brass button and dates the trousers to being made between late 1940 and early 1942. A large map pocket is located to the left thigh and features a covered button which is another notable feature of the early pattern, as are the belt loops fitted around the waist. The fly fastens with stamped zinc buttons and more are located around the waist to which braces can be attached. Slash pockets are located to each hip which also feature an opening to allow access to clothing worn under the trousers. Tabs are located to the bottom of each leg as are usually found on this early pattern.

To the rear of the trousers the original label is still present and some of the details are still legible. The size of 10 is present as is the word 'overall'.


The trousers are designed to be worn over the battledress uniform so should be worn oversize for an authentic fit. When laid flat they measure - 

Waist - 19 1/4"
Rise - 18"
Rear rise - 20"
Inside leg - 31 1/2"
Outside leg - 47"
Cuff - 10"

The trousers are in excellent condition with only limited signs of age and wear. They display well and are very wearable but please take time to study the pictures provided. 

A rare pair of original early war British work trousers rarely encountered today. These would make a fine addition to any collection.