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53 Vintage Sewing Patterns From 1920s Through 1980s

Vintage sewing patterns are valuable to anyone who loves to make their own outfit. With the recurring fashion trend, having vintage sewing patterns handy allows you trendy sewing projects any time. Check out this collection of vintage sewing patterns and create a whole line of classic and fabulous pieces for yourself!

Fabulous Vintage Sewing Patterns You Can Sew Today

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1920's Vintage Sewing Patterns

1. Flapper Girl Dress

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The 1920's marks the beginning of the modern fashion era of comfortable clothing, especially for women. Gone are the days of layered fabric and heavy petticoats. These flapper girl dress patterns were completely different to the dress designs before. It has two sleeve variations: long sleeve and sleeveless. The shoulder requires small gathering and the hip area is pleated diagonally.

2. Flapper Cloche Hat

You can make this flapper cloche hat to pair with the flapper dress pattern you have above. A lot of vintage pieces today are making a comeback so you can expect some oohs and aahs for this one. The pattern comes in four different designs so you can choose your desired hat. You can also make them all if you like!

3. Men's Casual Lounge Jacket

Vintage patterns for men from the 20's are so hard to find. Luckily, I've found this men's casual lounge jacket pattern and it's free! A lot of seamstresses would surely love to have this pattern on hand.

4. Men's and Boy's Union Suit

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I found another vintage sewing pattern for men, and this one is an undergarment. This man and boy's union suit is an adorable free pattern you can make for your boys who will be wearing a suit sooner or later. They also make an adorable one-piece for your boys.

5. Flapper Coat Shawl

These flapper coat shawls look cozy and elegant. This would make a great project this winter. I love the details and linings of this pattern. It looks sophisticated and perfect for formal events.

 

1930's Vintage Sewing Patterns

6. Evening Gown

Evening Gown | Vintage Sewing Patterns From 1920s Through 1980s

This 30's evening gown vintage pattern is a stunning forerunner of today's maxi dress. This design accentuates your figure and the sleeve frills add drama. What makes this vintage design ahead of its time and perfect for this era is the sexy low V-cut at the back.

7. Repro Vintage Full Apron

Aprons are super easy projects, so why buy when you can make one? Sewing aprons are also fun and easy, especially with these vintage patterns. This retro vintage full apron will make a fancy addition to your apron collection.

8. Ladies' and Misses' Blouse

Finding the perfect vintage sewing pattern for blouses can be daunting. These ladies and misses blouse vintage sewing patterns have fabulous designs you would love to have. It comes in two different sleeve variations: sleeveless and short sleeve.

9. Cape

Capes are part of the glamorous staples of 1930's fashion. This outerwear piece was worn over a stylish evening gown. This is an elegant garment, not every girl could wear one during the 30's. No one will be stopping you today so go ahead and work on one.

10. A-Line Skirt

1930's A-line skirts are making a comeback both for formal and casual wear. This A-line skirt is so stylish and one of the few vintage sewing patterns I love. It's intimidating for beginners, but an intermediate seamstress will not have any trouble at all.

11. Playsuit Skirt Beach Romper

You must have this romper pattern today with how it continues to be on trend. From formal to casual wear and short to long rompers, there's no sign yet of it's going out. Now you can have a romper of your own unique design and fabric choice.

 

1940's Vintage Sewing Patterns

12. Swimwear

This vintage swimwear sewing pattern is so in today–you have to have it. Celebrities are sporting this exact swimsuit design on latest trends. You too can have the same swimsuit, but not one with a hefty price tag.

13. Dirndl Skirt

Learn how to sew this stylish 40’s dirndl skirt with this easy sewing pattern. This country-inspired skirt seems to hit the latest trend, too. What was once serviceable styles of skirts are now fashionable.

14. Misses Summer Peplum Blouses

Today's fashion style is no longer limited to a single era. It's a hodge-podge of the different eras of yesterday. These vintage summer peplum blouse patterns are common in many of the tops we see today.

15. High Waist Shorts Clam Diggers Trousers Pants

Get this vintage shorts and pants patterns now before it gets out of trend. This is so fashionable right now and easy to work on too if you have the right pattern. Pick your own fabric and get this latest in clam digger pants and high waist shorts trend.

16. Simplicity Vintage Dress Pattern

This simplicity vintage dress pattern is simply fabulous! The pattern has an elegant notched collar and a two-sleeve variation: long sleeve, and 3/4 sleeve. You can wear this flattering dress to day events or even at the office!

 

1950's Vintage Sewing Patterns

17. Misses' Vintage Dress and Sash

These misses' vintage dress and sash patterns are so lovely! The pattern fitted through the waist features a bound-button closing, cuffs, side front and side back seams, and side pockets. This dress would be perfect for both day and night occasions.

18. Pleated Swing Skirt

Swing skirts are a fashion trend from the 50's you can still rock today. This pleated swing skirt pattern is an easy-to-sew high-waisted style. Turn heads with this classic skirt no one will suspect you made yourself.

19. Vogue Petticoat Pattern

Get the pattern of this 1950’s petticoat and use it to add volume under your skirt. The ruffles create an amazing fashion statement when worn by itself. You can also adjust the size so you can make one for your daughter.

20. Blouse

This vintage blouse sewing pattern was designed in 1950. The patterns consist of a long sleeve, short sleeve, and a sleeveless blouse with front buttons and a notched collar. This blouse will make a chic office OOTD when paired with trousers or a skirt.

21. Bolero Jacket

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If you didn't know, you would not think bolero jackets first became fashionable in the 50s. Bolero jackets are now a staple for every fashionista no closet should ever be without it, including your's. This 1950's bolero jacket pattern should cover it!

22. Wrap Around Slim Skirt

One of the most popular skirts from the 50's is the wrap around slip skirt. This skirt pattern is so classy and the silhouette looks fabulous. You will want to have this skirt before someone else revives this trend.

23. Butterick Pattern Dresses

This Butterick pattern dresses are fitted in the waist and cuffs, perfect for a triangular body type! It gives emphasis to the upper part of the body. Look chic and fabulous in a dress you did not pay an arm and a leg for.

24. Butterick Pattern Misses' Wrap Dresses

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These Butterick patterns Misses' wrap dress is the perfect dresses for summer. They look flattering and lovely even today! With a circular skirt, a soft fabric will be best for this one.

 

1960's Vintage Sewing Patterns

25. Misses High Waisted Dress

This chic style of a misses high-waisted dress was for cocktail parties in the 50s. Today, you can make one on your own you can wear on a casual day or night out. This dress is so stunning with bias tied in a bow and the smocking on top of the skirt.

26. Simplicity Misses Vintage Cape

This winter, make this simplicity misses vintage cape pattern. It has two large pockets at the front, front buttons, and a collar. This cape pattern will keep you warm and in style this winter season!

27. Girl's Shorts, Jamaica's, Pedal Pushers, and Pants

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Show off your amazing legs and your sense of retro fashion with this girl's short, jamaica's, push pedals, and pants. The pattern perfectly fits petite young girls. All patterns also have side pockets on the right with left side zipper.

28. Misses' Blouses

If you're looking for easy patterns for beginners, this misses' blouses vintage pattern is one. These lovely blouses come with sleeve, sleeveless, collared, and scooped neck. Use your imagination for the perfect match to this top.

29. Boy's Robe

This boy's robe vintage sewing pattern is a perfect project you can make all year round. A robe would make practical projects you can make for your kids. This boy's robe pattern has a set-in sleeve, tie belt, patch pockets, and self-fabric carriers.

30. Mod Coat, Skirt, and Blouse Pattern

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If you're into retro vintage looks, I'm sure you'll love this authentic MOD coat, skirt, and blouse pattern set. You can make an amazing vintage inspired-outfit with this vintage sewing pattern.

31. Jacket Patterns Simplicity

These jacket patterns have a vintage Parisian look to them and it's adorable! It's an easy-to-follow pattern you can work on for a day or two on your own phase. Add a little sense of adventure to your closet with these lovely jackets.

32. Simplicity Misses' Vintage Three Armhole Dress

For a petite lady who wants to look elegant, try this simplicity misses' three armhole dress vintage pattern. This gorgeous dress design is simple–no buttons and zippers. Only draping and a bow to compliment the design.

33. Evening Dress and Theater Coat Patterns

You can find several 60s dress patterns you can still put to good use today. A good formal dress will cost a hundred if not a thousand bucks. Get away from the outrageous expense with any of these 1960s elegant evening gowns and theater coat patterns you can DIY.

34. Split Skirt and Sleeveless Top Summer Outfit

Skirts and sleeveless tops are the perfect pieces to wear in warm weather. These split skirt and sleeveless top summer outfit pattern will become your vintage outfit staples. Plus, the pattern instruction is easy to follow.

 

1970's Vintage Sewing Patterns

35. Vintage Dress And Cape

You must have at least one vintage cape set in your wardrobe and it need not cost you so much. Look to these 70s dress and cape patterns for inspiration. This is certainly a great piece to add to your collection.

36. Women’s Jumpsuit

Jumpsuits are all the rage these days and they are inspired by this 1970’s jumpsuit pattern. There are endless variations you can make with this jumpsuit. From casual to formal and from wrap to plain design, you can create your own style.

37. Tennis Dress/ Short shorts

These tennis dresses and short shorts are so cool, you should make one on your own. It has a front zipper which is great for adjusting the neckline. The pattern makes a sleeveless and short sleeve with a chic flat collar.

38. Back Pleat Smock Jacket Coat and High-Waisted Wide Leg Cuffed Pants

These 1970's back pleat smock jacket coat and high-waisted wide leg cuffed pants remind me of 70's winter fashion. The back pleat of this coat looks fabulous and the high waisted cuffed pants are the exact styles I was looking for.

39. High Waisted Dress

This pretty high waisted dress vintage pattern gives a classic chic look you can wear for all occasions. The pattern has two sleeve variations: long sleeve and short-sleeved. The zipper is at the back and has a stand collar.

40. Apron Dress

I love classic apron dresses! They're so fancy and versatile with so many style variations. This simplicity vintage 1970's apron dress pattern has three lengths available and large pockets at the front. The pattern is really simple, you can make one for yourself or as a gift to your friends.

41. Classic Trench Coat

Brighten up your chilly days with this gorgeous classic trench coat. This coat looks fabulous even today. You'll surely look effortlessly chic in this coat.

42. Simplicity Misses' Vintage Skirt Patterns

These simplicity misses' vintage skirt patterns are so easy to make. It's the perfect skirt to show off the bright and bold fabrics! Choose a lightweight fabric to make these skirts perfect for summer.

43. Maxi Dress and Jumper

Maxi dresses are a trend that never dies, and they seem to be even more popular today. They're stylish, light, and comfy, and still lovely for both day and night! This maxi dress and jumper pattern makes a perfect project for summer.

44. Bohemian Vests Bolero Jackets

If you're in love with the vintage bohemian style, I'm sure you'll love these bohemian vests bolero jacket patterns. You'll enjoy matching different pieces to reflect on your unique boho outfit. The patterns have round and shaped neckline and you can make it either short or long sleeved.

 

1980's Vintage Sewing Patterns

45. Straight Skirt Pattern

Feeling nostalgic looking at the office OOTD from the 80's? Check out this straight skirt pattern, which looks all the more stunning when paired with a plain white blouse! Go ahead, make one, and add it to your stylish wardrobe which doesn't break the bank.

46. Pullover Dress

Batwing sleeves are the signature of this 80s design. The fitting is very loose and straight, while the length can be below knee or evening length. Pair this pullover dress with your favorite belt, and you'll surely look gorgeous.

47. Misses' Blouse

This misses blouse pattern is one of my favorite vintage patterns. It reminds me of the simple yet stunning fashion of the 80's. The patterns look gorgeous, I'm sure I'll be making them again and again.

48. Sundress and Tunic Vintage Sewing Pattern

These sundresses and tunic vintage patterns are stunningly gorgeous! You'll look absolutely classy and sexy in this sundress and tunic. Both patterns are light and easy to make.

49. Dress and Jacket Pattern

This stylish dress and jacket pattern sure looks elegant! The pattern shows a long-sleeved and fully-lined dress. The jacket has big shoulder pads and lovely flat collar. I'm sure you'll love wearing them this winter season.

50. Misses Jacket, Skirt, and Pants

These vintage patterns of misses jacket, skirt, and pants are truly some of the ravishing outfits of the 80's. The jacket pattern has a raised neckline, shoulder pads, shaped front, and long sleeves. The length of the skirt is above the knee and the tapered pants have a raised waist which is also in style these days.

51. Lingerie Patterns

These 80's lingerie patterns will certainly flatter your figure and make you feel sexy and gorgeous. The patterns are so easy to make! If you love lace, this would be the perfect project to make.

52. Loose Jacket

Another gorgeous and stylish jacket you can make for winter is this loose jacket pattern. It's a simple pattern, so you can use a lightweight fabric if you want it for daily wear. This jacket is sure to keep you warm and cozy this winter!

53. Women's Pants Style Pattern

These 80's women's pants style patterns are timeless. The pattern of these pants have yoke and pockets, fly front zipper, and a buttoned waistband. Make one your own with this pattern.

 

Check out some Butterick sewing patterns in this video from Vintage on Tap:

These vintage sewing patterns will make great inspiration for your next sewing projects. Next time you need a new outfit for a special occasion, forget about window shopping and hit your workshop. One of the sewing patterns for dresses here is bound to turn heads whatever the occasion!

Which of these vintage sewing patterns are you eyeing for your next fashion sewing project? We'd love to know all about it in the comments section below!

Up Next: 101 Clever Sewing Projects To Upcycle Fabric Scraps

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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in February 2017 and has been updated for quality and relevancy.

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