British Army Denim Parachutists Over Smock Dated 1944 

1944 Dated British Army Denim Parachutists Over smock. Officially designated “Jackets Parachutists 1942 Pattern”, this item was intended to be worn over the top of the denison smock when parachuting out of an aircraft. This was an early piece of British airborne design and like many other pieces from this period, it clearly takes its influence from the German Fallschirmjäger paratroopers uniform.

The jacket is made from a green/beige coloured denim material and features a metal zipper to the front. Two small pockets are fitted to the front and there is a large fishtail to the rear which passes through the wearers legs and fastens at the front on brass press studs (one replaced). Inside the smock the collar features a piece of khaki green coloured shirting material. To the lover lapel is the original manufacturers label still present and is bright and legible. It states the size as No. 6 and the maker’s name as ‘Henry Brown (Clothiers) Ltd’. Below this is the 1944 date and the War Department broad arrow marking. There is also faint War Department acceptance stamp. Inside neck is also stamped with the year “1956” followed by “U-6”. The year the smock was reissued (most likely). The jacket is in good condition with one replaced button, a square patch repair to the back and light soiling from age and real use.

War time example in good condition!!