Mess Jacket - Removal of Rank Insignia

[Bruce Scott]

The stripes should be easy enough but not sure about the corps insignia. Those were often directly embroidered (at least in my era!). Unusual insignia, too. Maybe Civil Engineer?

Yes, Civil Engineer, according to the description. I have asked the seller for more info about it.

[plaid preacher]

Bruce, you probably are safe with a mess jacket.... there should not be substantial fading, as they are not worn every day and then often after sunset. I suspect both rank and MOC badge are sewn on. You may wish to take it to a tailor, as they would have opened the side seam to tuck away the end of the rank tape.

[Chaps]

I just bought a used mess jacket (though I am having it re-striped with the proper rank and insignia). My tailor had no problem removing the old stripes and insignia. There are no marks left. You should be fine. Your only problem may be finding a proper waistcoat to go with it as these uniforms are worn with a cumberbun.

[Bruce Scott]

Many thanks for all of your replies.

I have gone ahead and bought the jacket, which should arrive from the US by about 15 September.

[Reiver]

I just bought a used mess jacket (though I am having it re-striped with the proper rank and insignia). My tailor had no problem removing the old stripes and insignia. There are no marks left. You should be fine. Your only problem may be finding a proper waistcoat to go with it as these uniforms are worn with a cumberbun.

Would you require a waistcoat? For a formal affair a high set/trad kilt with formal sporran would seem to be enough with proper white shirt/bow tie.

[Bruce Scott]

I do have a black, three button waistcoat that should work with the jacket.