Whilst the shawl collar has become an enduring piece of WW1 military clothing, the pattern is actually much older, dating back to WW1 and initial designed as a replacement for the pullover jumper. There are a number of key details the are substantially different from the later versions, notably the denim on the arm is cut across the grain, the sleeves are much slimmer, the pockets are pulled back and aligned with the side seams, and the eyelets for the buttons are more like mini button holes. The buttons are metal, but from the slight corrosion on these maybe iron or steel rather than the later copper. Finally, there are the remnants of where a paper tag would have been sewn into the waistband.
But most noticeably with this absolutely stunning piece is the icon stencilling both on the cuff and the upper back. I believe the back says "LFV U.S. NAVY AIR BASE MINNEAPOLIS' but it's faded in places and hard to confirm.
This is not a fashion piece, and I would not recommend this is purchased to wear. It's an extremely rare (I've only found photos of 2) very early version of this iconic garment, and this belongs in a denim archive or serious USN collection!
Condition
Good used vintage condition. The denim is still strong, through there is a small 1 inch tear to the below and some rust related holes on the cuffs. Expect fading and wear throughout.
Size
- No Tag
- Fits a medium
- Pit to pit 20"
- Shoulder to shoulder 18"
- Shoulder to cuff 24"
- Collar to hem 25"