It’s a story as old as well, 1945, it sounds like. WWII was ending and the rationing effort was beginning to taper, but relics from the war period were still prevalent, serving as stark reminders of a time when saving even the smallest bits of fabric and thread could make a big difference. When clothing lovers look back at this crucial time in world history, one type of garment that sticks out as a rarity amongst rarities is denim — Levi’s denim, to be exact.
Resurrecting an all but forgotten set from the mid-1940s, UES‘s 14.9 oz Post World War II Denim Jacket and Regular Straight Jeans are based on post-wartime Type 1 and 501, each with their own set of details — or lack there-of — that make them extremely rare today.
Made from UES’s proprietary 14.9 oz. selvedge ‘Fllagship’ denim, not only do the jeans look the part, they are sure to wear in like an old-school pair as long as you’re willing to put in the work. Notably featuring a resource-saving 4-button placket (instead of 5) and flap-less single chest pocket, the Type 1 in all its pleated glory, provides a classic option that is suitable for work (yeah, right) or play. Moving down the line, the Jeans feature a laurel wreath top button, a plain donut button fly, what looks to be HBT pocket bags (originally sourced from leftover HBT U.S. Army Uniforms), and of course the blank back pockets void of arcuates.
Both pieces are closed out with leather patches inspired by original Dubbleware and/or Wear Well branding – Massachusetts manufacturers of workwear during the early to mid-20th century. You’re welcome.
Available from $228 from Redcast Heritage Co.
