Original 1942 Dated1940 Pattern (Austerity) Battledress Trousers - 12

An original pair of 1940 Pattern (Austerity) Battledress trousers which were made in 1942 before going through the army reconditioning service later in the war. 

This pattern of trousers came into issue with the British Army in 1942 replacing the earlier 1940 pattern. These are an austerity pattern which don't feature belt loops, covered buttons to the pockets or tabs to the bottom of the legs. They are made from the standard khaki green serge wool used for British uniforms during this period and are fitted with brown coloured vegetable ivory (plastic) buttons, typical of late 1942 manufactured battledress. The trousers are not the 1946 pattern as they do not have the extra braces buttons.

The original label is present to the rear of the trousers, although being a re-issued pair it is not the label the trousers had when they left the factory. Many jackets and trousers went through a reconditioning process during the war and were relabeled such as these. They always have the maker's initials 'R.S.D' and no date on the label but it most likely dates from 1944-45 as most re-issued clothing dates from this period. 

The trousers are a larger size which will suit someone of around a 34-35" waist depending on desired fit. When laid flat they measure - 

Waist - 17 1/2"
Inside leg - 32"

The trousers are in good condition with some signs of wear and use. There are a couple of small moth nips as illustrated in the pictures. There is also a repair to the inside of the right leg below the crotch which has been neatly done and is only noticeable on close inspection. This was quite likely done during the reconditioning process. Overall they display very well but please study the pictures before purchasing. 

All in all a good pair of austerity pattern trousers in a larger, wearable size.   

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