Description: Chambray shirts were the original Navy Working Uniform. These were issued to all ranks, though primarily worn by enlisted for obvious reasons, for dirty hands-on work. The shirts were made from thin, light fabric for ventilation, and combined with the harsh work environment few seem to have survived to the present. Some were available for private purchase through the exchange like this one, made by King Kole, made from a 50/50 Polyester Cotton blend, likely indicating it was made after WW2 during the 50's - 70's (after Vietnam the Navy seems to have changed the shirts from open top pockets to flap-covered pockets). Other than US Navy usage, chambray shirts were most famously worn by Elvis (see last picture) and working people who also appreciated the shirts' durability, light weight, and stylish looks. Even today, it is considered a timeless piece of men's fashion and wouldn't look out of place at work or at play. You will receive the exact shirt shown in the listing. It is in a rare LARGE size but is in excellent condition. Measurements:Chest: 22 inches flat (44 inch circumference)Shoulder: 18 inches flatOverall Length: 35.5 inches (top of collar to bottom hem)These shirts were intended to fit a little loose and be tucked in, but it could be worn as an X-LARGE if you like a tighter fit. The shirt appears to have been issued and worn as seen by the rank decal applied directly onto the fabric (usually it is on a patch that is then sewn on), but appears to be intact with limited wear and tear. The only minor flaw is a broken button on the cuff that you can easily replace. Please see the 6th photo for how the rank stamp is applied relative to the sleeve. It is more towards the front/bottom than the side, which is probably because it was how the sailor hand-stamped it on. Similar irregularities have been seen with USMC stamps from the period that were also hand-applied.This item would be perfect for a militaria collection or even as a fashion statement since imitations of this timeless style are still being sold. The Vietnam War is now 50 years in the past and is being increasingly re-examined because of how fundamentally it changed American history. Scarce items like this, in a very wearable size no less, are not going to become any easier to find. Buy now to own a piece of history!If you buy or win multiple items from me, please message me about combined shipping. Please see my other listings for more awesome militaria items from all modern eras.
Price: 99.99 USD
Location: Los Angeles, California
End Time: 2024-12-25T19:47:15.000Z
Shipping Cost: 11.2 USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Modified Item: No
Country/Region of Manufacture: Vietnam
Theme: Militaria
Original/Reproduction: Original
Conflict: Vietnam (1961-75)