Thanks Peacoat I also thought it was the real deal but just wasnt sure with the feel of the material.

 

When I said 'taught' I mean I buttoned it and lifted the sleeves to get right under the pit and measured it likeso. Hence whilst it was held 'taught' but not overly tight. I'd say it would be a 18 had I laid it down and measured it without disturbing the fabric. I will take more detailed measurements later on and post them up. Any particular measurements you want?

There shouldn't be that much difference between the material in the WWII and the 1966 coat. Sometimes one finish will be a bit smoother than another, but usually that is only discernible when they are together side by side.

The p2p is the only measurement I need. Pull the fabric tight, release and then take the measurement. Disregard the seams and don't measure from them.

Just measured and its a true 18in across the chest.

 

One more question how can I find the original positioning of the buttons as I believe some might be out of place?

 

I also need to re position a couple on my '66 coat too?

That will be difficult. Normally I would say look at the lining for the thread holes, but normally the peacoat buttons are affixed and then the liner is sewn on. One way might be to hold the coat at an angle to a daytime window and look for the thread holes. That method normally shows all imperfections in the fabric. Don't know if it will pick up old buttonholes, though.

Thanks for the p2p.

How much extra coat should be there below the bottom row of buttons, vs. say the spacing between the rows of buttons? Should it be the same, 25% more, 50% more?

Also, is there some accepted range of widths between buttons (e.g. 5 inches? 6 inches?).

...bought (and returned) the JCrew in size small. The sleeves were too short, and the body was an absolute sack (same with the Gap and Old Navy peacoats...didn't expect much)

...bought the Billy Reid Bond Peacoat at a discount in a size medium. I had to have the sleeves lengthened, but the body fits like a dream. I actually love the lapels. It gives the coat a less "dime a dozen" look, and the leather collar wins everytime.

hey guys, I'm new and I just have to say, great thread. It's helped me alot with learning about peacoats. I just got one and wanted to see if anyone could give me some feedback on it. It's 30.5" from collar to bottom i think. I'm a 5'6" skinny build. Kind of feel like the length and sleeves are too long, deciding on getting it tailored. 

 

 

 

My New WW2 Pea Coat marked 40. Over all I'm very happy with the fit & condition. I think the shoulders are a tad broad, and the sleeves around 1/2" too short from ideal
The measurements from the eBay seller were p2p 21.5" and 19.5" across the shoulders.

I think the jacket has been re-lined at some stage as it's flawless. I somewhat suspect the hem has been raised slightly, but I like the length.
The shell is in good condition - there are a few moth tracks, however you can't see them except when you're 3 foot or less from the coat and in bright light.
The lapels, collar, button holes and cuffs are in excellent to mint condition. I think the colour is very strong and you can tell it's blue under both natural and artificial light.

Thanks Peacoat for all your assistance in private messages

Front (t-shirt)

Front (midweight sweater)

inside

Pocket Tag

Neck Tag

Edited by wombus - 1/28/13 at 9:27am

can peacoats be re-lined? and if so, where would I look to get such a service? I have a vintage peacoat but the lining is not so great in the sleeve openings. 

Sure. Any decent tailor should be able to do that.

oh! haha easy answer. okay, i'll have to ask my tailor about that. hopefully it won't be too costly. 

Received my newest peacoat from VT. The good: Fit. I'm glad I went with a 38. Measures 20.5" p2p and fits great. The bad: Not quite as "mint" as they described. Specifically, there a pretty obvious stains on the end of the left sleeve. The wool there is discolored and indented and I'm not sure a dry cleaning is going to get it out. I tried to get a good photo of it:

 

 

There are some other issues as well. There are definitely a few rough spots on the rest of the sleeve where the wool is not particularly smooth. Maybe I'm being a bit OCD in regards to that, but I think the stains in the photo are worth a return. Feel free to let me know if you think otherwise. The saga continues.

Rather than replace the lining, it might be better to repair it, if feasible. Around the armholes is a high wear area. I have had one repaired with wear in that area.

thanks for the suggestion. yeah lining throughout the jacket seems fine. just pretty beat up at the sleeve openings. 

What peacoat is ryan gosling wearing in this photo. it looks like a demin one with pockets and an attached hood. what is the brand or item name or where could i purchase this item.