SWEDISH 1910S/1920S CREAM LINEN TWO PIECE SUMMER SUIT. SIZE CA EU 46 (US/UK36)

DESCRIPTION

This is a very rare suit, which we regard as a collector’s piece. It is most likely bespoke, but it bears no labels whatsoever, making it impossible to state its origin with absolute certainty. It is, however, most probably of Swedish origin and was likely made during the first decades of the 20th century. The suit is made from a heavy linen cloth with a subtle cream tone. Fabrics of this type can yellow slightly over time; it is possible that it was somewhat whiter originally. Nevertheless, it does not appear yellowed, but rather retains the intended off-white, cream-coloured hue.

The jacket features several details typical of early 20th-century tailoring. Most notably, the shoulder seam is set very far back, creating a characteristically rounded shoulder line. It is single-breasted with a three-button fastening. The jacket has patch front pockets with substantial pocket flaps. One detail worth noting is the absence of a breast pocket, which is more indicative of the period than of the garment type itself. The lapels are wide and peaked, without a buttonhole. At the back, the jacket is straight and has no vent. Internally, it is unlined and features a single inside pocket on the right-hand side.

The trousers are flat-fronted, meaning they have no front pleats. They are high-waisted and feature belt loops. On the inside of the waistband there are buttons for braces. The fly is buttoned. The legs are cut straight and there are no turn-ups at the hems. In the fly, there is a somewhat unusual solution incorporating two press studs. This has certainly been added at a later date, most likely because the distance between the top button and the hook-and-eye fastening was considered too great. It could easily be reverted to the original configuration if desired.

Considering the age of the suit and its type, the condition is very good. Linen suits were certainly produced in large numbers and were not an uncommon summer garment at the time, but very few have survived to the present day. Those that do surface often show significant damage. It is in this context that the condition of this suit should be assessed. Is it in mint condition? No, of course not. There are some minor discolourations in the form of small marks, but nothing that detracts from the overall appearance. All of these are documented in the photographs; we kindly ask you to study the images carefully and form your own opinion of the condition.

SIZE

Overall, the suit corresponds most closely to a modern EU 46 (US/UK 36), with the jacket being at the slightly larger end of that size range. The trousers measure approximately an EU 48 (US/UK 38) at the waist when the adjusters are fully let out; however, it should be borne in mind that these are intended to be drawn in slightly to adjust the fit at the waist. Please scroll down for exact measurements and seam allowances.

MEASUREMENTS

JACKET

Chest (A) : 53 cm

Waist (B) : 49 cm 

Sleeves (C) : 60cm

Shoulders (D) : 47 cm

Total length (E) : 75 cm (72 cm measured from neck seam)

TROUSERS

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

Length (B) : 110 cm 

Inseam (C) : 80 cm 

Cuff width (D) : 24 cm 

Seam allowance trousers waist: 0 cm 

Seam allowance trousers length: 1,5 cm