Original 1954 Dated RAF Officer's Collarless Shirt - Size 15

An original RAF officers shirt in good condition which was made in 1954.

This pattern of shirt was worn by officers throughout the Second World War. It is the correct half-placket front and not the full button front which was phazed in later on. It is made from the standard blue coloured end-on-end cotton and features a French cuff which is designed to be folded back on itself and fastened with cufflinks. The collar is neckband style, to which a detachable collar can be fastened. Whilst dated 1954, this shirt is identical to those produced during the Second World War. 

Inside the neck of the shirt the original markings are still legible. The maker's name of 'Banner' is present as is the size of 3 and the 1954 date. The War Department broad arrow marking is also present. 

These shirts are cut wide across the shoulders and chest to allow them to be pulled on over the head which needs to be taken into account when studying the sizes below. It will be a good fit for someone of around a 38" chest depending on desired fit and when laid flat it measures - 

Chest - 23 1/2"
Inside arm - 24 1/4"
Outside arm - 27"
Shoulders - 18"
Length - 32"
Collar - 15"

* If worn with the cuff folded back as intended, detract 2 1/2" from the sleeve measurement.

The shirt is in good condition with some limited signs of wear and age. There is some light staining which is evident in the pictures. The tail of the shirt has also been shortened, most likely to make a collar or repair another shirt. This is not visible when the shirt is worn tucked in. Please study the pictures and bear in mind that this is a pre-owned, vintage item which may have small issues commensurate with age.

Overall a nice original shirt which would be ideal for a reenactor who wants to wear the correct original items or a collector to add to an RAF officer collection.

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