Costume Help - 'VJ Day Kiss' Sailor Uniform?

Question

For Halloween my girlfriend and I are dressing like the couple kissing from the famous photograph taken on VJ Day (Victory over Japan Day) in August 1945. I am trying to find an accurate sailor costume but am having trouble. I noticed from the photo that it is either navy blue or black, has flared/bell-bottom pants and 3 white stripes on the bib with no patches on the visible sleeve. Does anyone have a more extensive knowledge of this uniform?

The picture was taken August 14, 1945 in Times Square, NYC. Would it have been blue or black? And does anyone know where I could find the closest costume replica for a good price or where to look to find all the pieces separately, maybe? Thanks!

Answer 1

The uniform is US Navy Dress Blues, or Crackerjacks. You can order a set from eBay. There's a patch on the left sleeve that shows his rank and rate. The color is black. The full uniform includes black shoes, dark socks, a white tshirt, a neckerchief tied with a square knot, and a sailor hat.

Answer 2

Vj Day Kiss Costume

Answer 3

It looks like the standard "crackerjack" uniform or Winter Blues.



Check the link for a site to buy the costum.

Answer 4

If you or someone you know sews you could make a cheap replica from a few bed sheets...and imagination.