1930s Sewing Patterns - The Art Deco Age

In this era 1930s evening dress patterns were influenced by the golden age of film, by stars such as Bette Davis, Greta Young, and Carole Lombard among the many who influenced women’s fashion during this time. The top designers of this era were Madame Vionnet, Coco Chanel and Elsa Schiaparelli who designing a more elegant and woman about town look.  Perhaps 1930s evening gown patterns and 1930s dress patterns are probably best known for its showcasing the invention of the bias cut. This involved cutting the fabric at a 45 degree angle instead of along the straight grain and was introduced by Vionnet. Lounge-wear in the 1930s was luxurious and elegant as it was comfortable. The relatively new lounging pajamas considered to be very versatile, appropriate for any time of day. Pajamas were also seen as an excellent opportunity to express individuality, as they were made in a wide variety of prints and styles. Coats embraced the Art Deco age with long, tailored, modest winter coats. Faux fur, wool, velvet, and tweed added. Thankfully, the classic 1930s long coat is making a comeback. Even the short 30s jacket, a sporty American style, is starting to gain fashion followers in the UK. vintage 1930s blouse styles of the period embraced the ‘bell hop’ shirt as well as Bolero and often shown paired with button front beach pajamas, A few blouses (long or short-sleeved ) plus two or three skirts or suits, would combine to make a really extensive wardrobe. 1930s skirt patterns had lines that were simple, the overall effect was one of complete sinuous femininity with a natural waist and skirts flaring out slightly at the ankle.  In the first part of the decade 1930s women's pants patterns show cased very loosely fitted trousers.  In the second half of the 1930’s, trousers really start going crazy.  In 1939  it seemed everyone wanted them, and they were here to stay!  Lingerie - in this decade a ladylike feminine curve starts to come back in style as we start to move away from the boyish gamine figure of the 1920's. Round and pointier bust shapes along with natural waist curves are desired.. Through the 1930s swimsuits gradually began hugging the body, with shoulder straps that could be lowered for tanning. Hollywood endorsed the new glamour with films such as Neptune's Daughter (1949) in which Esther Williams wore provocatively named costumes such as "Double Entendre" and "Honey Child".  

Men’s 1930s fashion is often considered the finest men’s fashion in the past century. The styles of the 1930s was conservative yet colourful, oversized yet practical, and confident yet concerned about his spending on unnecessary clothing. Men’s suit jackets could be made into sportier sports coats as well. Sports coats featured a sewn on belted back with pleats at the shoulder, belt, or both for ample movement. Sports coats came in more color choices than plain business suits. Each sports coat was paired with a matching or contrasting pair of trousers. The rainproof trench coat is the overcoat that the 1930s are most well known for.

Our 1930's vintage sewing pattern collection is available in sizes ranging from XXS – XXL. We offer either the original pattern, a high-quality true to scale 1930s sewing pattern reproduction or an easy PDF sewing pattern to download at home.