A 1990-era, authentic U.S. military 6-color desert camouflage jacket.
Commonly known as “Chocolate Chip,” this is an incredibly iconic piece that epitomizes the history of U.S. military desert uniforms. The size is MEDIUM-REGULAR.
The six-color pattern features a beige base overlaid with large brown-toned camouflage patterns, with fine black and white specks scattered throughout. Because these small specks resemble chocolate chips, it is widely known among collectors by the nickname “Chocolate Chip Camouflage.”
The 6-Color Desert Camouflage was one of the first full-fledged desert camouflage patterns adopted by the U.S. military in the early 1980s. It is a pattern that symbolizes the U.S. military prior to the transition to the 3-Color Desert Camouflage, and is an indispensable element when discussing U.S. military equipment, particularly from the period around the Gulf War.
This particular item is from the 1990 contract. The inner label reads:
“COAT, CAMOUFLAGE PATTERN: DESERT,
” “CONTRACT NO. 8055-90,
” and “DEFENSE PERSONNEL SUPPORT CENTER”
.
This “DEFENSE PERSONNEL SUPPORT CENTER” (DPSC) is not merely a manufacturer’s name. Established in Philadelphia in 1965, it was a logistics and supply organization of the U.S. Department of Defense created by consolidating the previously separate supply functions for clothing and textiles, food, and medical supplies.In particular, “Clothing & Textiles”—including military uniforms—was a key area of responsibility for the DPSC, which handled the procurement, inventory management, and supply of clothing for the U.S. military. In 1998, it was renamed the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, and its lineage continues to the current DLA Troop Support.
In other words, the “DEFENSE PERSONNEL SUPPORT CENTER” inscription on this jacket does not indicate a brand or a manufacturing facility; rather, it refers to the government agency responsible for procuring and supplying U.S. military uniforms at that time.Along with the contract date of 1990, this detail offers a direct glimpse into the U.S. military supply system of that era. In fact, the DPSC had a dedicated Clothing and Textiles division responsible for procuring military apparel.
The front features four large flap pockets, a hallmark of the BDU style. The fabric is 50% cotton and 50% nylon. While it offers the practicality expected of military wear, this jacket also makes a striking statement when incorporated into contemporary fashion.
The size is the highly sought-after MEDIUM-REGULAR. The tag still bears the markings HEIGHT 67–71, CHEST 37–41, and NATO SIZE 7080/9404. Since it is a REGULAR length rather than SHORT, it is a well-balanced size that’s easy to wear.
Condition: Used. While it shows some signs of wear, it remains in overall good condition. The fabric is beginning to develop a worn-in look that new items lack, and with continued wear, you’ll be able to enjoy the unique fading and texture characteristic of “chocolate chip” fabric.
Unlike the early white-tag versions, this piece is particularly appealing as it is a 1990 contract item, dating from a period when the 6C Desert camouflage had matured into full-fledged combat gear. We highly recommend this piece not only to those who want to enjoy “chocolate chip” as a fashion statement but also to collectors looking to build a collection spanning different eras.
Condition: Used / Shows slight signs of wear, but is in good overall condition
Please note that returns are not accepted for used items.
Size (measured flat)
: Shoulder width: 46 cm,
Chest width: 61 cm,
Length: 75 cm
, Sleeve length: 62 cm
