CC41 – Utility Label

CC41 also known as the Utility Label, was used in Great Britain as a result of wartime shortages in WWII and the period immediately following. Rationing of clothing went into effect in June, 1941, and strict manufacturing standards were drawn up limiting the amount of fabric, fasteners and trims that could be used in each garment. These garments bore the CC41 government stamp – the CC standing for Controlled Commodity.

The British Board of Trade enlisted the help of many of the country’s top designers, including Hardy Amies, Molyneux and Norman Hartnell to design samples that fit within the strict measures. These styles were then adapted for the mass market.

Although clothing rationing ended in 1949, CC41 labeling continued until 1952.

Written by fuzzylizzie

from a 1940s dress

Courtesy of catboxvintage

from a 1940s dress

Courtesy of candysaysuk

from a 1940s wool overcoat

Courtesy of RetroRuth UK

from a 1940s cotton mens shirt

Courtesy Circa Vintage Clothing Melbourne

from a 1940s dress

Courtesy of pinkcoke