The WW1 ANZAC Nurses uniform, as worn during the Egypt Campaign between 1915 and 1918, reflected both the professionalism and endurance of the Australian and New Zealand Army Nursing Service (AANS and NZANS). This practical yet elegant ensemble became one of the most iconic female uniforms of the Great War. It was designed to meet the extreme conditions of desert service while maintaining a dignified appearance suited to medical personnel serving under military command.
Our 100% accurate replication of the uniform consists of a grey cotton dress, featuring a high white collar and long sleeves with red rank bands on the lower arms indicating nursing seniority. The dress comes with a white cotton apron and a detachable white collar, symbolizing purity and service. Over this, nurses wore a distinctive scarlet wool shoulder cape, fastened at the throat with a silver or brass badge of the Australian or New Zealand Army Medical Corps (we are unable to provide these at this stage) but cape is provided. The scarlet cape became a hallmark of the ANZAC nursing sisters and was instantly recognizable across hospitals and casualty clearing stations in Egypt, Gallipoli, and the Middle East.
The skirt was long and full to the ankle, allowing freedom of movement yet preserving modesty. The uniform is made of lightweight grey cotton drill suited to warm climates, while the cape is fine scarlet serge lined with pale grey sateen. The ensemble was completed with a broad-brimmed straw or felt hat for outdoor wear, often with a dark ribbon and medical service badge which is not provided with the ensemble.
This uniform symbolized the compassion, courage, and endurance of ANZAC nurses serving far from home under challenging wartime conditions.
Custom tailoring/alteration done at no extra cost.
Ideal for reenactors, history afficianados, museum displays, collectors, films, theater & movies.
