This US WW2 1943 Women’s M43 Jacket is a high-quality reproduction of the women’s version of the famous American M43 field jacket. Based on the original wartime women’s pattern, this jacket offers an excellent alternative to the shorter M41 jacket. With its longer cut, practical lower pockets and sturdy cotton construction, it is ideal for re-enactment, living history, film work and historical displays.
The jacket is made from green cotton fabric with a thin cotton poplin lining. It features a button front closure, two usable lower pockets with single-button flaps and upper breast pocket flaps that are decorative only, just like on the original women’s version. An internal waist cord allows the jacket to be pulled in slightly for a more shaped fit.
Please note: only UK size 10 and UK size 12 are still available.
These jackets are made in modern UK women’s sizing, not original wartime US sizing.
Available sizes and bust measurement advice:
- UK 10 / approx. EU 38: suitable for a bust measurement of approx. 87-89 cm. Actual jacket chest measurement laid flat: 52.5 cm, approx. 105 cm around.
- UK 12 / approx. EU 40: suitable for a bust measurement of approx. 92-94 cm. Actual jacket chest measurement laid flat: 55 cm, approx. 110 cm around.
As this jacket is intended to be worn over an HBT shirt, wool shirt or light jumper, we recommend allowing some extra room for movement. When unsure, measure a jacket that already fits well and compare it with the measurements above.
Please note: in the presentation and model photos, this women’s M43 jacket is shown together with a mustard-coloured trouser in M-1937 style. This choice was made because, at this moment, matching women’s M43 trousers are unfortunately not in stock. However, this combination is still historically plausible, as uniform items were often mixed in practice during the war depending on availability, issue and field use. For that reason, this variation still fits well within a credible WW2 impression.
Subtle advice:
For a historically suitable impression, this women’s M43 jacket can be worn over a US WAC HBT shirt, wool shirt or service shirt. It also combines well with WAC collar badges, a garrison cap or other US Women’s Army Corps accessories for a complete WW2 display.
Historical Context
The M43 field jacket was developed during the Second World War as part of a more practical American field uniform system. It was longer than the earlier M41 jacket and intended as a functional outer layer for colder or changeable weather. The women’s version of the M43 jacket was approved in late 1943 and was intended for female American military personnel, including members of the Women’s Army Corps.
This jacket reflects the wartime shift toward more functional military clothing. Compared with earlier designs, the M43 offered better coverage, more room for layering and greater practicality in the field. For collectors, re-enactors and living history use, it represents an important development in late-war American uniform design.
