Rare Original 1945 Dated British Khaki Drill Trousers - Size 13

A rare original pair of British Khaki Drill Trousers made in Great Britain in 1945.

This pattern of trousers came into issue with the British Army and RAF towards the end of the Second World War and feature the cross belt closure to the waist and slash pockets to the hips. A lot of wartime KD items are Indian made with British examples such as this being much rarer. This pattern saw issue with the RAF and also the British Army. 

The trousers are made from the standard khaki tan coloured cotton drill material and feature the cross belt waist closure which was also seen on the 1950 pattern trousers which stayed in service for a number of decades. The belts fasten with the correct chromium plated single prong buckles and the fly fastens with green coloured vegetable ivory (plastic) buttons, as is commonly found on 1945 dated British uniform items. A first field dress pocket is located to the rear which is another notable feature of this wartime pattern. 

The original label is present inside the trousers and bears the title of 'Trousers KD'. The size is stated as 13 and the maker's initials of 'CWS Ltd' are present and denote the Co-operative Wholesale Society - Better known today as the Co-op. The 1945 date and the War Department broad arrow are also present. 

The trousers will suit a 30" waist although are adjustable at the waist due to the cross belt design. When laid flat they measure -

Waist - 15"
Rise - 15"
Rear rise - 18 1/2"
Inside leg - 29 1/2"
Outside leg - 43"
Cuff - 10 1/2"

The trousers are in good condition as can be seen in the pictures. They display well and are still very wearable. There is some staining and some signs of wear as is to be expected with a vintage pre-owned item such as this. Please study the pictures as they form part of the description.

Altogether a good pair of this rare pattern of wartime trousers. These would make an excellent addition to any collection! 

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