ww2 kangol beret query

[1stSAS]

Hi gents,

I have general query as to ww2 manufacture of berets like kangol or beret industries Around the diamond you sometimes find a stitching. I do not think this was to support plastic cover as you see this in post war berets, so not sure what the reason could be.

Happy New Year.

JB

[GCG1964]

Hi JB.

The lining itself on these early type berets has a "stiffiner" of felt, burlap or similar material to help keep the shape. Years later this method was dispensed with by many companies when the fashion of berets went to a close fitting "skull cap" look.

Regards Graham.

[lnijherald]

I'm not sure what exactly the function of the hessian was but it wasn't to keep the floppy beret in shape. There is no hessian on my 1947 commando beret, but there is on my 1948 maroon beret
So my impression is that the hessian was gradually left away before the adoption of the silly small berets.

Luc