The cornerstone of home sewing for over a century and still going…
September 1st marks the start of National Sewing Month with Simplicity.com’s Fall 2025 collection rollout and the latest release of Vogue Patterns, joining the McCall’s pattern drop in August. Butterick and Simplicity Patterns fall assortments are arriving over the coming weeks. As we celebrate, it is only fitting that we dedicate this chapter of The VIP series to the Very Iconic Patterns themselves, the traditional tissue paper patterns that have guided and inspired the home sewing community for generations. We recognize the DIY fashion, home décor, and art & crafts created with printed paper patterns. Proudly made in the USA for over 160 years and trusted by home sewists since 1863. A traditional tissue paper sewing pattern is more than just its folded sheets.
The Fall season brings together the iconic glamour of eveningwear, sophisticated updates to The Workwear Edit featured shop and more faithful reissues of retro sewing patterns. Whether you are sewing a gown worthy of the red carpet, a 1980s Laura Ashley blouse, or tailoring a jacket for a work event explore the new fall season of Very Iconic Patterns.
Structured jackets, wide-leg trousers, and versatile separates are perfect for fabrics ranging from crisp wools to embellished denim serving style with your office attire.
From sweeping gowns to fitted cocktail dresses, Fall 2025 evening opulence is on full display! Vogue Patterns offers a full spectrum of stunning silhouettes. Look for seductive draping, dramatic embellishments, and sharp tailoring from McCall’s too!
The Original VIP - Vintage Iconic Patterns
New authentically reissued vintage sewing patterns and modern fashion designers are shining a spotlight on the legacy of tissue paper patterns. The retro reissues are faithful to the vintage collector’s desire for the original format and giving newer home sewists a chance to learn traditional construction techniques.
DIANE VON FURSTENBERG AND LAURA ASHLEY
The wrap-dress pioneer, Diane von Furstenberg, has opened the archives sharing her effortlessly chic 70’s dress patterns. Laura Ashley: Known for her romantic use of lace, high necks, and soft tailoring, her 80’s blouse designs transition beautifully into 2025 workwear!
The surge in celebrity demand for archival designer garments on the red carpet reminds us why these retro designs are so popular. The original patterns assumed advanced sewing skills for many elements like how to manage an inset sleeve.
DID YOU KNOW?
Reissued sewing patterns are printed with the exact same pattern specifications and instructions as the original and offer extra value by including additional sizes with updated detailed instructions.
- The Art of the Pattern Envelope - A Tradition Worth Keeping
The envelope itself is a work of art and an educational tool. Sometimes hand-drawn, sometimes photographic, the cover illustration of a sewing pattern envelope is the initial inspiration to create. Once in your hands, flip it over, and discover detailed garment drawings, sizing information, fabric recommendations, and inside line-by-line instructions with illustrations. The pattern envelopes are more than packaging, they are visual time capsules with distinct style numbers marking fashion eras.
The Legacy of Tissue Paper Patterns
There is something deeply nostalgic and tactile about a paper pattern. Unlike digital downloads, a paper pattern is more than a blueprint, it is a collectible, a keepsake, and a reusable tool. Some collect them as style references, others reuse them in new fabrics. A well-loved pattern becomes part of your fashion archive.
The origin story of the tissue paper pattern begins in the 1860s, when Ebenezer Butterick revolutionized home sewing by introducing graded patterns on thin paper. By the early 20th century, tissue paper sewing patterns had become household staples. To learn more, take a stroll through our history with A Stitch In Time or visit our Blog.
National Sewing Month at Simplicity.com
National Sewing Month is our annual celebration of home sewists everywhere. Throughout September, Simplicity.com spotlights the patterns, people, and projects that inspire makers at every level from first-time beginners to seasoned crafters. This year’s VIP campaign begins with Very Iconic Patterns honoring sewing history while introducing new collections that will inspire the next generation. The VIP series: Very Iconic Patterns, Very Important People, Very Inspiring PDFs, and Very Innovative Projectables celebrates the full spectrum of fashion, crafting, and the talent that supports the home sewing community.
More National Sewing Month Fun