This is a World War II 1943-style 1st denim jacket with a clear take on The War Production Board period.
1943 marked a turning point in World War II, with the American public in high spirits following successes in the Pacific Theater. In this context, we envisioned the “S806XX,” a special wartime incentive version designed to boost morale and win public support. The “S” in “S806XX” stands for “Simplified,” referring to Decree L-181 under WPB management, which mandated simplified workwear requirements to conserve materials.
Crafted from 13 oz. slub selvedge denim, this jacket replicates the slub texture of the time, when cotton was less carefully carded to improve efficiency. It features copper-colored iron rivets (due to WPB L-68 law limiting civilian copper use), donut buttons, a four-button front placket, and a button on each cuff. The stitching reflects the challenges of the era, including a shortage of skilled labor and the hurried training of new workers, capturing the essence and charm of that period.
