USN ALPACA VEST

The USN ALPACA VEST was a layer piece worn by the US Navy during the Second World War. Made from a cotton poplin shell and finished with a plush alpaca lining, aspects of this garment borrowed elements from the N-1 deck jacket.

The actual origins of this piece are elusive as there is no military specification tag available to refer to. However, archive images and found vintage pieces with evidence of being signed off by inspectors do confirm the vests role among sailors. The prevailing theory being that the USN ALPACA VEST was a civilian garment that would have been made by a contractor with experience and skill in crafting military uniform.

The smooth handle of the shell found on vests worn in the 40s has been carefully replicated with our cotton poplin, while the alpaca lining adds a comfortable, insulating layer.

• 100% Cotton poplin
• Alpaca wool pile lining
• 40s brass bell-shape zip
• Cotton placket
• Cotton thread construction
• Made in Japan