The transition from 1944 to 1945 marked a turning point in denim history—the war restrictions were easing, but the rugged, utilitarian soul of the era remained. The CDW Lot 45 is a tribute to this post-war evolution, defined by bold details and rugged function. It retains the signature high-rise, roomy silhouette of the mid-40s while reintroducing iconic features that signal the end of rationing, built to endure a lifetime of work.
14oz Sanforized Rigid Denim: A versatile weight that maintains a tough, textured hand-feel.
1945 Straight Leg Fit: A high-waisted, true straight-leg profile for period-correct comfort and utility.
The "Stealth" Arcuate: Tonal (navy) stitching on the back pockets that honors the transition from painted to stitched arcs.
Heritage Hardware: A branded CDW top button (as seen in image_6.png) paired with Laurel Leaf fly buttons, bridging the gap between custom branding and wartime history.
Irregular Coin Pocket Stitching: Deliberate irregularities that mimic hurried, high-output production, giving each pair unique character (image_5.png).
Classic Construction: Features the distinct V-stitch at the waistband and a heavy-duty chain-stitched hem with period-correct run-offs (image_3.png).
White Selvedge ID: A clean, classic white selvedge line visible on the outseam and coin pocket edge (image_3.png and image_5.png).
Lemon Yellow Stitching: Bright contrast threading throughout.
Copper Rivets: Full set of standard-sized copper rivets on front pockets and coin pocket (excluding watch pocket rivets, per period correct details).
Vegan Leather Patch: Robust and ready to age with you.
Made in Malaysia: Constructed with precision and deep respect for archival garment assembly.
The war restrictions have lifted, but the grit remains. This is the Lot 45—built for the workingman.
⚠️ Archive Specials: The "Waste Not" Pairs
In the spirit of wartime resourcefulness, we have utilized the final meters of this denim roll for two unique pairs. These are cut from the exact same 14oz fabric but feature different outseam finishes:
Size 28 (Special): Features a "Half-Selvedge" outseam—a classic detail often seen on vintage Lee garments where only one side of the denim edge carries the selvedge ID.
Size 30 (Special): A Non-Selvedge outseam—utilizing the full width of the fabric to ensure zero waste.
Both pairs carry the exact same construction, hardware, and fit as the rest of the Lot 45 series.
Sizing & Care
Order your regular waist size. These jeans are sanforized to minimize initial shrinkage, though the denim will still "settle" and mold to your body with wear. If between sizes, we recommend sizing up.
Inseam Length: 35 inches across all sizes.
Shrinkage: While sanforized, expect up to 1.5"–2" of inseam length shrinkage if using a machine wash and dry cycle. For best results and to preserve the indigo, we recommend a cold soak and hang dry.