Why

I’ve always thought WWII German military uniforms were visually striking. History has an unfortunate habit of giving some of the worst regimes some of the best uniforms.

I first put this costume together in 2003 and later improved it for an organised 1940s weekend at Haworth. I’ve also attended similar events in British Army and RAF uniforms. For me, these have always been historical costumes: portraying people from different sides of the period is not the same thing as endorsing their governments, politics or actions.

When

February 2003

Elements

Tunic, jodhpurs, boots, cap with replica WWII badges, replica Iron Cross and ribbon, ribbon bar, Infantry Assault Badge, holster and strap, replica Luger (not taken out in public, so was a bit pointless to have), gloves, era-appropriate collar tabs, greatcoat.

Amount of Work

Just some sewing and replacing of badges etc.

Level of use

Only three times: first at a fancy dress party using an early version of the costume, later at the Haworth 1940s weekend, and once for some photographs in the snow on the field opposite my house.

Notes

The holster, belt and strap were items used in the production of Band of Brothers and may have included original period pieces. Most of the other clothing was made from East German-era uniform parts, which look very similar apart from being somewhat greyer than the wartime green-grey.

Future use

Probably retired. I’ve enjoyed wearing it as a historical costume, but when showing a large collection of varied costume photos to strangers, I’ve occasionally encountered younger people who equate portraying a WWII German serviceman with endorsing Nazi ideology, and I don’t particularly want the aggravation of having to try to justify or defend me having worn it. It remains here as part of the record of the many costumes I’ve made and worn over the years.