Original 1961 Dated British Army Officer's Poplin Cotton Shirt

An original British Army Officers tan coloured poplin cotton shirt made by 'Faulat Ltd' in 1961.

This shirt is typical of those made in the 1950s and 1960s for officers in the British Army. It is made from a light khaki tan coloured poplin cotton and features a neckband collar which would be worn with a matching detachable collar. A plain barrel cuff which fastens with a single button finishes the sleeve and the shirt features a full button front. This style started to gain popularity during the Second World War, eventually replacing the earlier half fronted shirts in the post-war period. 

The original label is still present inside the shirt and is bright and legible. It bears the maker's name of 'Faulat' who were a prolific manufacturer of shirts from the British military for many years and were based in Belfast. The size of 1 and the collar size of 14 is also present to the label, as is the 1961 date and the War Department broad arrow marking.

The shirt is a medium size which will suit around a 36" chest, depending on desired fit. It is important to remember that they are designed to be worn loose across the chest so as to allow movement etc. When laid flat it measures -

Chest - 21 1/2"
Inside arm - 19"
Outside arm - 22"
Shoulders - 16 3/4"
Length at back - 33"
Neck - 14"

The shirt is in good condition with signs of wear and use. There is some staining etc and a small repair to the armpit as illustrated in picture 4. Overall it displays well and appears to be very wearable but please take time to study the pictures and bear in mind that it is a vintage, pre-owned item which may have small issues commensurate with age. 

A nice original mid century shirt made from a lovely poplin cotton!