Our World War I U.S. Army American Expeditionary Forces (AEF) “Doughboy” Summer Uniform is copied from original patterns and reflects the design to meet the challenges of campaigning in warm weather and southern training environments, as well as early deployments overseas. It is made from lightweight cotton khaki drill fabric (please see highlights above), and these uniforms are lighter, more breathable, flexible and cooler to use than the wool unifgorms.
The uniform is the same for enlisted men and officers alike, the summer uniform typically consisted of a khaki cotton tunic (service coat) and matching trousers, paired with the regulation M1912 or M1917 campaign hat, or in field conditions, the M1917 Brodie helmet (we do not currently provide the campaign hat or the Brodie helmet). The cotton tunic followed the cut of the wool service coat, featuring stand-and-fall collars, pleated chest pockets with scalloped flaps, lower skirt pockets, and five (U.S. Army eagle buttons not available at thsi stage) buttons. Reinforced stitching and a tailored yet practical cut allowed the uniform to withstand field wear while maintaining smart military appearance.
The trousers are straight-legged, designed to be worn with spiral puttees (available for free if you buy both the service coat and trousers) and service shoes (available separately on this page).
Historically speaking – the Enlisted men’s (OR’s) Uniforms were mass produced, and the Officer’s uniforms were mostly custom tailored. You too can get your uniform custom tailored by us at no extra cost.
Today, the AEF summer uniform stands as a distinctive and historically significant piece of U.S. military attire, representing America’s rapid mobilization and deployment during the First World War. It remains a sought-after artifact for collectors, museums, and reenactors, living history afficianados, movies, films, theater, COSplay, LARPing groups, symbolizing the material culture of America’s “Doughboys.”
