The ATS 1939 Women’s SD Tunic is a smart reproduction of the British Auxiliary Territorial Service 1939 Pattern Service Dress tunic. According to the source page, this was the first model introduced in 1939 and worn throughout the war until 1945. It has the formal and well-tailored appearance that is so characteristic of early British women’s wartime uniforms.
This version features pleated top pockets, lower bellows pockets, a lined interior, shoulder epaulets, brass GS buttons, and a waist belt. The source page also states a length of 70 cm from collar to hem and mentions barathea fabric. This makes the tunic especially suitable for re-enactment, living history, display use, and collections focused on British women’s Second World War impressions.
Subtle advice block
For a historically convincing ATS impression, this tunic is best combined with a matching skirt, correct blouse and tie, suitable headwear, and the proper ATS insignia. This creates a balanced and authentic British women’s wartime presentation.
Historical Context
The Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS) was established in September 1938 as the women’s branch of the British Army. During the war, ATS personnel served in a wide range of support roles, including drivers, telephonists, clerks, radar and searchlight operators, ammunition inspectors, and other essential military duties. By June 1945, the ATS had grown to more than 190,000 members from across the British Empire. This tunic therefore fits very well within an early to mid-war British women’s military impression.