1940s Nightwear Sewing Patterns 

During the ‘40s men didn’t just throw on an old T-shirt and boxer shorts to get into bed. They had to look presentable, too! Matching cotton pajama sets were always worn. They consisted of straight-leg pants (or shorts) with a high elastic waistband or drawstring waist and a button down shirt. The shirt might have had a large pointed collar, a crew neck or V-neck. Some were pullover (middy) styles instead of button down coat style. Just like ‘40s women, men always threw a robe on over their pajamas to lounge around the house. Men’s robes had padded shoulders, came down to the knee or mid-calf, and were worn wrapped around and tied with a long wide fabric belt. They usually had a large shawl collar, but a wide notch collar was an option as well.  Some had piping in a lighter shade to add another dimension. One or two large patch pockets were placed at hip level. A waist length silk robe called a Smoking Jacket was a men’s accessory that was worn over his day clothes at home to protect them from smoke and ash damage. They had lost popularity until the 1950s, when the “Rat Pack” men made them dapper again.

Our 1940's vintage Night-wear pattern collection is available in sizes ranging from XXS – XXL. We offer either the original pattern, a high-quality true to scale 1950s sewing pattern reproduction or an easy PDF sewing pattern to download at home. 

References: Vintage Dancer