Original Early WW2 British Army Denim Battledress Trousers

An original pair of British Army Denim Battledress Trousers dating from the early part of the Second World War.

This pattern of trousers was introduced at the very beginning of World War Two replacing the earlier fatigues used in the Great War and inter-war period. They were in turn superseded by an austerity pattern in 1942 making them a rare find today.

These particular examples have had the first field dressing pocket, map pocket and ankle tabs removed at some stage, most likely to make the more usable as a work trouser. The belt loops have been left though and fasten with stamped brass buttons, with the same being found to the fly. There is a clear outline of where the original issue label was previously stitched to the rear of the trousers.

The trousers will suit someone of around a 32" waist as these are designed to be worn oversize. They have a very short inside leg but due to the high rise waist they can be worn low. When laid flat the trousers measure -

Waist - 17 1/4"
Rise - 16 1/2"
Rear rise - 19"
Inside leg - 23 1/2"
Cuff - 10"

The trousers are in well used condition as can be seen in the pictures with the usual signs of wear and use associated with vintage work pieces such as this. Obviously the pockets have been removed, leaving a small tear to the right seam of the map pocket as shown in the pictures. Aside from this they look to be very wearable and have a great patina to them.

Whilst not an item for the purist, personally I really like the workwear aesthetic of these trousers and think they would make a great addition to a collection!