Item 2022.36.6 - British Army Khaki Wool Breeches

2022.36.6

British Army Khaki Wool Breeches

Item

1

Khaki breeches in a heavy wool fabric. The breeches are front fastening via six khaki-coloured, plastic buttons on a concealed button placket. Six more buttons can be found at the waistband to enable braces to be attached. A further two buttons are located just below the waistband at the rear. On each side of the fly at the front of the trousers sits a type of slanted pocket known as a frogmouth pocket. Below the pocket on the right side is a first field dressing pocket. This is a box pleated, patch pocket [currently stitched closed] with a button fastening. The breeches are cut wide above the knees and tapering tight from the knee downwards. Reinforced patches made of cotton moleskin are sewn using dark, contrasting stitching, to the inner lower thighs. The calf opening [cuff] of each leg also features two matching buttons. The hem of each leg is trimmed with a hard wearing, cotton fabric in a lighter coloured khaki. The trousers are unlined. On the inside of the waistband is stamped the 'Broad Arrow mark' consisting of "W / [upwards pointing arrow] / D / 11."

No Label
Materials: Wool, Cotton
Measurements: 99cm [Length]; 43cm [Waist]; 68cm [Inside Leg]
Details: Button fly; Reinforced inner leg
Physical Condition: Good

The Broad Arrow Mark was used in various forms from the 14th century onwards to mark objects that either belonged to the government or that were purchased using the money of the ruling monarch. This symbol was used by The War Department to stamp British Military Uniform and equipment during the Second World War and was phased out in the 1980s.

The letter ''M" sits above the Broad Arrow Mark on this pair of breeches signifying that they were issued in 1944.