Following the success of the frogskin pattern in WW2, in the early 1950s the US military started to experiment with camouflage as a standard pattern for its uniforms. Not much is known about these early, and largely hand painted patterns, but the two that resulted were known as Vine Leaf or USMC Standard and Cloud or Mitchell Pattern. These two patterns would be printed onto reversible fabric, with one side designed for temperate climates, the other for dry climates. Today, they are collectively referred to as Mitchell Pattern.
There were never actually any Mitchell garments widely issued, only shelter halves and helmet covers, but the pattern did make it onto a few tailor made and commercially available items. This is an example of the classic non-reversible Mitchell shirt, handmade for marines during the early part of Vietnam. This was certainly constructed from shelter halves as you can clearly see the original seams on the pockets, arms and shoulders. Likely this would have been made in either Okinawa or one of the many tailors in Vietnam.
Condition
Beautiful, used vintage condition. A truly stunning piece. Both sides of the material have a wonderfully toned faded. There is no damage, bar a small period repair to the rear right shoulder.
Size
- No tags, but fits like a perfect size medium
- Pit to pit 21.5"
- Shoulder to shoulder 18"
- Shoulder to cuff 22.5"
- Collar to hem 28"