Indian made British Aertex battledress jacket – Dated 1943

Original WW2 Indian made British Aertex battledress jacket as used by a variety of British and Commonwealth servicemen during the Second World War. This pattern of jacket was introduced in 1943 alongside the KD Battledress trousers. It is made from cellular cotton, often referred to as ‘Aertex’, which is a lightweight, breathable fabric which is ideally suited to hot climates. Based loosely on the woollen battledress, the tunic is cut in a short ‘blouson’ style and features a full button front with waist belt (waist belt has no buckle). As well as this it features pleated chest pockets and an inner pocket. As this blouse was designed to be worn against the skin the button which fastens to the inner pocket is reversed and fastens through the inside of the breast pocket, meaning that the button can’t rub on the wearer’s skin. All of the buttons are the coconut husk type often seen on Indian made clothing. Maker marked and dated 1943. The jacket is in unused condition.