1941 issue, Luftwaffe 'Drillich Herringbone Twill Linen Work Jacket'.
A special item arrival.
Moreover, it arrives as deadstock that has never seen water.
The Luftwaffe, the air force of the German Wehrmacht, was established during the period from 1935 to 1945 under Nazi Germany.
It was one of three branches of the military of the National Socialist German Reich, alongside the army and navy.
The Luftwaffe functioned as Germany's primary military force throughout the Second World War.
From its inception, it rapidly expanded by adopting cutting-edge aviation technology and tactics from around the world.
When the war began, the Luftwaffe became the core of Blitzkrieg tactics, participating in many crucial early engagements including the invasion of Poland (1939), France (1940), and the Battle of Britain (1940).
However, defeat in the Battle of Britain marked a strategic turning point. Subsequently, as Allied air power strengthened and resources dwindled, its strength began to wane.
By war's end, the Luftwaffe had lost considerable influence and was dissolved with Germany's defeat in 1945.
We present the 'Drillich Work Jacket'—issued and worn as a base-duty garment by the Luftwaffe during the Second World War.
Drillich is a German term referring to a weaving technique, denoting HBT (Herringbone Twill) fabric.
Particularly during the Second World War, the German military adopted it extensively—from summer work uniforms to summer combat garments—due to its superior durability.
Initially issued as unbleached work and training wear, as the war progressed, this fabric's comfort and practicality led to its adoption for summer combat uniforms in the field.
This suggests that across the Luftwaffe, the Kriegsmarine, and the Heer, the fabric was worn broadly in summer applications, far beyond mere workshop wear.
Though originally designed for training and work, it underwent continuous refinement into forms better suited to combat, evolving in response to practical field demands.
German Drillich is said to have been produced with reference to the French Bourgeron, and the details and hand of the fabric are remarkably similar.
Its abbreviated length and emphasized waist silhouette represent a refined design that retains the functional heritage of military wear while integrating seamlessly into contemporary fashion.
The front placket, though minimalist in its concealed-button construction, draws the eye with its distinctive character. This pared approach commands presence through restraint, possessing a natural harmony that settles comfortably into any wardrobe.
The absence of pockets further emphasizes this understated individuality.
Beneath the arms sit both chrysanthemum-shaped ventilation holes and slit-form ventilation apertures, designed to prevent interior moisture accumulation.
The sleeves employ three-dimensional draft construction as well, lending a refined elegance akin to tailored wear, despite the military origins.
The neckline features a button-fastened 'chin strap' intended to prevent wind infiltration and to support the collar when worn upright.
The presence or absence of the chin strap makes a world of difference.
The elevation and atmosphere achieved when the collar is raised stand apart entirely.
Inside, stamps from the period remain distinctly visible and deeply impressed. The Luftwaffe typically applied five numerals to each piece:
・The upper left digit indicates length to the waist or hem.
・The upper right digit indicates collar size or neck circumference.
・The center digit indicates chest width.
・The lower left digit indicates total length.
・The lower right digit indicates sleeve length.
All are marked in centimeters.
The fabric employs linen—highly regarded in the vintage market.
Its distinctive hand, which trembles gently with movement and rivals French linen, accounts much for its appeal.
Linen from this era remains incomparably superior; even untrained hands perceive the difference, and contemporary reproduction is deemed impossible. The fabric alone possesses substantial value.
Beyond rarity, when considered as a fashion item, this is a genuinely handsome piece. We encourage wearing it without reservation.
Size marking reads '39 / 42 / 84 / 59 / 59'
In Japanese sizing, this approximates 'S'.
Actual measurements confirm a slim fit, making it suitable for those of smaller frame without concern.
The condition, being deadstock, is exemplary. There are no tears or significant damage, though light soiling from extended storage is evident.
Naturally, there are no defects that impede wear, so it remains entirely serviceable.
German military items have drawn particular attention in recent years, yet original examples remain extraordinarily scarce—a reflection of both historical loss and the limited supply relative to collector demand.
With a dedicated following, German military pieces are undoubtedly archive specimens that collectors rarely release.
Whether as a wardrobe piece, collection anchor, or design reference, this garment warrants serious consideration.
It represents a rare arrival for our shop. If you have been seeking such a piece, we encourage you not to overlook this opportunity.
