I think you'll find that it is evolved from actual combat clothing. From the late 18th Century through World War 1 they were used throughout British Empire. There were minor changes to colars, cuffs, lapels and pockets but the basic design was used right up to modern times, though as you say it has become more cerimonial now. The basic pattern was used by many different nations, just altered to suit the style/culture of the nation in question.
The Jackets are tailored around the chest/torso so you don't catch or snag on anything and the waist flares to give your lower body freedom. When used in conjunction with the webbing it was designed to ensure lower body freedom.
(From an Aussie POV) Just like you told us, if you saw a digger landing on the beach of Gallipoli and a modern day staff officer in dress uniform, you would recognise it as the same uniform.
I think during WWII uniforms became more practical in that they were generally chosen (or modified) to suit the conditions that the soldiers were operating in or the task that they were performing. WWII changed warfare a lot, and traditions usually came out second best)
Quote:
Originally Posted by Blackdog_kt
The RAF battledress shown in the period photos is 99% identical to the winter issue uniform i was wearing last year when serving as a flak gunner in the Greek air force 
It was the "ceremonial" uniform, used mostly in special occasions like unit inspections, taking the serviceman's oath after basic training and when you're on leave or entering/exiting the camp, as you're allowed to wear it in public
(as opposed to fatigues and overalls which is a no-no to be seen walking around in them in public during peacetime).
Well, we were on the allied side and also had a few squads fighting under RAF command in N.Africa after the country was occupied, so i guess that explains the similarities. Even the various rank isnignia have a a big resemblance. So, what i'm curious about is, what was the original use of this battledress uniform back in the 40s? Did people actually fly and fight in it or was it mostly the "look pretty" type of uniform like it is in our airforce today? |
Now this is a general question (I don't know the answer). Before someone told us that the country name was only used by the dominion forces when they went over seas. What did the RAF servicemen wear on their shoulders when they went to Russia?
Cheers