Best generic confederate trousers?

[Jalaco]

Howdy all,
So, being new to progressive re-enacting and such, I'm working on a generic confederate impression, eastern more so than western.
What do you folks think the most generic confederate trouser type would be? Military trousers? If so, depot, issue, years, color, material, etc.
Or would civilian trousers be the best choice if one is going for as generic as possible? And if so, material, colors, construction, etc.

Thanks in advance for the feedback!

[FloridaConscript]

Re: Best generic confederate trousers?

Jory,

Most CS issue trousers were adopted from civilian patterns. The gov't tailors in Richmond or Columbus or Memphis didn't invent trouser patterns. It has become somewhat of a "reenactorism" that mule ear pockets have been dubbed ANV trousers and side seam "AOT" mainly due to Childs' terminology. However, a brief look through CS Echoes of glory will show "mule ear" and "side seam" being used by men in all theatres. I'd recommend buying the best pair you can afford. CS trousers are pretty universal. A good pair in light grey or tan should have you covered for most scenarions. I like Childs' "confederate" trousers myself. very comfortable pattern.

[dixieflyer]

Re: Best generic confederate trousers?

What Bryant said, I could not agree more. I examined a couple of original civilian trousers from before the war, and there really wasn't much difference between them and "issue" trousers in my very humble opinion.

[Boucher42]

Re: Best generic confederate trousers?

Personal opinion, but Child's "Other Issue" trouser pattern is the most comfortable I have yet to wear. They have a slight taper in the leg and a crotch/seat cut comparable to "loose fit" modern denim jeans.