SWEDISH 1940S BLUE PINSTRIPE THREE PIECE BESPOKE SUIT BY HEDBERGS. SIZE CA EU 48-50 (US/UK 38-40)

DESCRIPTION

This fine three-piece chalk-stripe suit was tailored at Hedbergs sometime during the 1940s, a tailoring establishment in Eskilstuna, central Sweden. Unfortunately, the year was not filled in on the label, so it is not possible to say exactly when it was delivered, but it can of course still be dated to the decade. It is made from a highly characteristic cloth of the period, one that is seen almost exclusively in 1940s suits. The cloth is navy blue with alternating pinstripes and chalk stripes. From a modern perspective, it is probably what many would call the quintessential “gangster suit”.

The jacket is double-breasted and has three rows of buttons, of which two are used. It has horizontal front pockets with substantial flaps. Above the right-hand pocket is an additional flap which is purely decorative and does not conceal an actual pocket. The jacket has a breast pocket and a buttonhole in each lapel. At the back, it is straight and closed, with no vent. Internally, the jacket is fully lined and has a substantial inside pocket on the right-hand side.

The waistcoat is single-breasted and has six buttons at the front. It has four front pockets, two at chest level and two lower down. It is lined with the same cloth used for the jacket sleeve lining and the trouser waistband lining. At the back, it has a buckle for adjusting the fit.

The trousers are typical of the period, with double pleats, a button fly and buttons for braces inside the waistband. They have vertical pockets, and the waistband incorporates what is commonly known as a tunnel loop. This means that, when the trousers are worn with a belt, part of the belt is concealed within a channel running along the waistband. The trouser hems have turn-ups.

In terms of overall condition, the suit is very good. The only points worth noting are minor in the context of the garment as a whole: there are a few marks on the waistcoat lining, and there is also some slight discolouration to the trouser lining. This is, of course, not visible when the suit is worn. Please study the photographs carefully and form your own opinion of the condition.

SIZE

The suit corresponds approximately to a modern EU 48-50 (US/UK 38-40). Please scroll down for the exact measurements and seam allowances.

JACKET

Chest (A) : 55 cm

Waist (B) : 50 cm 

Sleeves (C) : 66 cm

Shoulders (D) : 45 cm

Total length (E) : 80 cm (77 cm measured from neck seam)

 WAISTCOAT

Chest (A) : 45 cm

Waist (B) : 42cm (with adjusters fully open)

Shoulders (C) : 32 cm

Total length (D) : 51 cm

TROUSERS

Waist (A) : 41 cm 

Length (B) : 110 cm 

Inseam (C) : 82 cm 

Cuff width (D) : 26 cm

Seam allowance trousers waist: 5 cm

Seam allowance trousers length: 1 cm + 9 cm if the cuff is removed.