1940 USN CHAMBRAY SHIRT - Harbor Red

The 1940 USN Chambray Shirt from Pike Brothers is a reproduction of the classic work shirt worn by US Navy sailors in the 1940s . The chambray shirt was part of the standard uniform for work both on deck and below deck, where clothing had to be durable, comfortable and practical for everyday use.

The model follows the authentic naval construction of the period, with a classic cut and historical details. The relaxed fit allows good mobility, while the robust fabric makes it suitable both as a work shirt and as a light layer over a t-shirt.

This version comes in Harbor Red , a rust-red chambray variant that gives a more distinctive look than the classic navy blue shirt.

The shirt is produced in Portugal, while the fabric is woven in Japan.

About chambray fabric

The shirt is made from 5oz Japanese selvedge chambray , a lightweight and durable cotton fabric developed for classic workwear shirts. The fabric is 100% cotton and is pre-washed so it won't shrink further after purchase.

Chambray is similar in appearance to denim, but is woven in a plain weave instead of twill. This construction makes the fabric lighter and more breathable than denim, while still maintaining a rugged workwear feel.

What makes this fabric special is that it is selvedge chambray . Unlike regular chambray, which is produced on modern looms in wide webs, this fabric is woven on traditional shuttle looms . These machines produce narrower webs of fabric with a finished woven edge – the selvedge.

The result is:

• clean edge that does not fray

• denser and more characteristic tissue

• a production method also used for Japanese selvedge denim

Selvedge chambray is relatively uncommon and gives the shirt a more authentic heritage feel. The fabric will also soften and develop more character with use and washing.

Details

• 5oz Japanese selvedge chambray

• 100% cotton

• Pre-washed – minimal shrinkage

• Authentic US Navy fit

• Classic workwear shirt

• Cat-eye buttons

• USN woven label

• Contract number according to original specifications

• Fabric woven in Japan

• Made in Portugal

• Article number: P0401-23-0049

Size chart (cm)

Measurements are taken when the shirt is lying flat. Slight variations may occur.

The story behind the USN chambray shirt

The chambray shirt became a staple of the US Navy work uniform in the 1930s and 1940s . The lightweight cotton quality made the shirt ideal for physical work on ships, while the material was durable enough to withstand hard use.

Typically worn with denim or khaki pants, the shirt quickly developed an iconic maritime look. Today, the USN chambray shirt is considered a classic in heritage and workwear-inspired clothing.