White Vest

[Colonel Buckshot]

I have seen a drawing of Sherman wearing a white vest when meeting with Grant in the book Commanders of the civil war by William C Davis on page 172.  Was the white vest common?  I dont see any sutlers offering such a vest it always blue or gray.   

[River City John]

http://fcsutler.com/pusvest.jpg

Fall Creek shows a sky blue vest that may read as white in an old photo. If a drawing, then it may be artistic license for reasons of design or contrast. Not familiar with the particular image you mention, though. Is it the typical 9-button military vest, or a privately made vest with different button arrangement? If private issue, then any of the civilian vests available at the various sutlers could be substituted if found in white cloth.

Wouldn't be the first time an officer displayed some latitude in the wearing of their personal uniform. Navy in southern climes were allowed white pantaloons, could certainly see addition of a white vest. Surgeons were known to wear white coats, etc. as undress in warmer climes also.

If you like the look, nothing in the GAF uniform guidelines preventing you from adopting it.

[Delmonico]

Can you post the picture if possible?

[Dr. Bob]

White vests were common in the Mexican war.  He might have liked the style.

[US Scout]

Vests were an optional item that could be privately purchased and worn.  US Regulations stated they should be blue (ie, navy) or white.  Based on photographs, blue seems to have been the more popular choice.

The Navy and Marines were authorized to wear white linen vests and trousers in warmer climates (American South, South America, Asia, Africa).

US Scout
Bvt Brig Gen, GAF