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Batch No. 4

1940 Pattern Battledress Blouse

1940 Pattern Battledress Blouse

Regular price £1,595.00 GBP
Regular price Sale price £1,595.00 GBP
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  • Lined with authentic Allied WWII parachute silk
  • Officer's Cut. Bespoke to your measurements
  • Limited to 100 garments only
  • Unique and priceless. A story worth wearing

Lined with WWII parachute silk

The Batch No. 4 Battledress Blouse features an interior collar lining cut from authentic Allied parachute silk. This was taken from a parachute that was manufactured for, and used in the Normandy invasion and has been carefully preserved for over 80 years. 

We've sourced enough silk to line the collars of 100 jackets. And rather than keep it in storage, we wanted to put it to use - by creating something that can be worn, and treasured, and that gives you a story worth telling. 

Officer's Cut

In the 1940’s, those with style stood out by having their uniforms tailored. Rather than take the standard issue kit, officers would often choose their own fabric and lining and have their tailors make them something bespoke. These became known as the Officer's Cut, which is why we chose this approach for Batch No. 4.

After you order, we'll invite you to London for a 1:1 fitting to ensure you get a perfect fit. If London isn't convenient for you, we'll send you everything you need to take your own measurements. Your jacket will then be cut and finished exactly to your specification.

Original Khaki wool fabric

Our version stays faithful to the original pattern. Two pleated chest pockets, shoulder epaulettes, adjustable waist belt, and the distinctive cropped cut that sits high on the waist.

It's made from 100% Merino wool which we've sourced from the same mill in West Yorkshire that invented and supplied the cloth during the war. It's a beautiful worsted fabric with a subtle texture, a fluid handle and a truly distinguished heritage.

Hand numbered and signed

Each garment is hand numbered out of an edition of /100 and signed by Avre co-founders and renowned historians, James Holland and Al Murray.

History

The 1940 Pattern Battledress replaced the 1937 Pattern shortly after Dunkirk. Small refinements improved comfort and durability, notably a lined collar and a closer cut to the blouse. This was the uniform British forces wore through North Africa, Italy, and Northwest Europe.

Commissioning your fit

The Battledress has a distinctly short, cropped fit. It's designed to sit high on the natural waist. This was intentional in the original design: the short length prevented bunching when soldiers were seated in vehicles or crawling prone.

Important fitting notes:
• Cropped length: The hem sits at your natural waist, not your hips. This is authentic to the 1940 pattern.
• Structured shoulders: The epaulettes and shoulder line are tailored for a military bearing.
• Adjustable waist: The integrated belt allows you to cinch the waist for a closer fit.
• Sleeve length: Cut with a slight forward curve for comfort when reaching or holding position.

We tailor each blouse to your measurements. After ordering, we'll be in touch about a fitting appointment at our studio in London. If an in-person fitting isn't convenient, we'll send you detailed measurement instructions. Your jacket is then cut and sewn specifically for you.

Fabric & Care

Outer

  • 100% Merino wool

Lining

  • Silk
  • 100% cotton, 205 gsm

Care

  • Dry clean only with care

Logistics & Dispatch

The Batch No. 4 Battledress is a unique custom made piece, which will be tailored to fit each customer individually. As such, this item is non-refundable.

Flexible Payment Options

We offer a variety of flexible payment options at checkout including Klarna and PayPal, as well as Apple Pay, Google Pay and all widely accepted credit cards.

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Handmade in London

All our garments are handmade in Greenwich, London. This allows us to remain very close to all stages of the production process.