A Stitch In Time

In honor of over 160 years of home sewing & crafting innovation, design, imagery & fashion influence, National Sewing Month will begin to unfurl the interwoven history of “The Core 4” - Butterick, McCall’s, Simplicity & Vogue Patterns.

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1800's

The Founders of DIY Fashion

  • 1850s

    "Easy-to-use" pedal sewing machines for home sewers were finally available in the US via mail order catalog.

  • 1863

    Founded: Butterick Ebenezer Butterick, a tailor, and his wife Ellen Augusta Butterick in Sterling, Massachusetts. Butterick opened its 1st factory in New York City within a year due to demand.

  • 1870

    Founded: McCall's James McCall, a Scottish tailor, in New York City. McCall's introduced perforated tissue paper sewing patterns. After his passing, Mrs. McCall ran the company until the 1910's.

  • 1899

    Founded: Vogue Patterns Vogue Patterns began as a .50 cent coupon pattern service within Vogue Magazine (1893) Vogue Patterns introduced the first licensed couturier patterns, allowing highly skilled home sewers to recreate high-fashion garments from European designers.

1800's Style
BUR7880
BUR7880

Burda Style Sewing Pattern History 1888

$18.87

B5970
B5970

Butterick Sewing Pattern Ruffled Tops and Floor-Length Skirts

$13.97

M7306
M7306

McCall's Sewing Pattern Corsets, Shorts, Collars, Hoop Skirts and Crown

$12.57

B6537
B6537

Butterick Sewing Pattern Misses' Costume

$13.97

B6610
B6610

Butterick Sewing Pattern Misses' Costume and Hat

$13.97

B6692
B6692

Butterick Sewing Pattern Misses' Costume

$14.67

M8123
M8123

McCall's Sewing Pattern Misses' Coat

$16.07

M8231
M8231

McCall's Sewing Pattern 1890s Blouse and Skirt

$16.07

M8304
M8304

McCall's Sewing Pattern 1890s Tea Dress and Belt

$4.00

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1900's

The Captains of Industry - Innovations in Home Sewing

  • 1909

    Mr. Condé Nast purchased Vogue Magazine.

  • 1914

    Vogue Patterns is launched and within two years were the first patterns to be uniformly sold in department stores nationwide in addition to the traditional mail in offerings.

  • 1917

    Article in McCall’s magazine describes the Red Cross relief effort and seven new patterns for hospital work. It presents sewing as an alternative to nursing to help the war effort.

  • 1919

    Introduction of Printed Patterns: McCall's began printing solid cutting line and dotted sewing lines directly onto the pattern pieces, a significant advancement in pattern design and usability.

1900's Style
B6108
B6108

Butterick Sewing Pattern 1910s Shawl Collar Jackets, Bibs and Skirt

$13.27

B6610 (PDF)
B6610 (PDF)

Butterick Sewing Pattern Misses' Costume and Hat (PDF)

$13.97

M7941 (PDF)
M7941 (PDF)

McCall's Sewing Pattern Misses' Costume (PDF)

$16.07

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1920's

Home Sewing Breaks the Fashion Mold with Flappers!

  • 1920s

    Innovation: Select McCall's patterns began featuring full-color illustrations on their envelopes, and by 1932, all pattern envelopes had full-color illustrations.

  • 1920

    The "Vogue Pattern Service" became its own publication, the "Vogue Pattern Book".

  • 1927

    McCall's licenses more European designers to compete with Vogue Patterns by signing Jean Lanvin (McCall's 4856) and 1929 Elsa Schiaparelli (McCall's 5839) joining Madeleine Vionnet.

  • 1927

    Founded: Simplicity Joseph M. Shapiro, with an idea from his father, along with his wife Caroline Hutchins Shapiro, a home economist, and their son James J. Shapiro in New York City. Simplicity Pattern Company was established in NYC with the goal of making home sewing accessible and affordable for the average household. Simplicity patterns were initially priced around .15 cents, significantly less than other brands at the time.

1920's Style
S9088
S9088

Simplicity Sewing Pattern Misses' Flapper Costumes

$16.07

B6399
B6399

Butterick Sewing Pattern Misses' Drop-Waist Dress with Oversized Bow

$13.97

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1930's

Bias Cut Dresses in the Golden Age of Hollywood

  • 1930's

    Innovation: Simplicity launched separate Sleeve Gussets Sewing Patterns (S8695, S8506) Gussets became more common in the 19th century with the rise of tailored clothing. The Great Depression spurred upcycling and reusing old garments creating a need for replacement "components".

  • 1930's

    Innovation: McCall's started printing the date of release on pattern envelopes, making it easier to date the patterns and track patterns.

  • 1932

    Simplicity joined McCall's by printing full-color illustrations on all pattern envelopes, enhancing visual appeal and easier to understand.

  • 1934

    Simplicity formed the Education Department, founded by Mrs. Caroline Shapiro, who was one of the first Home Economists in business. She retired in 1968.

1930's Style
S8510
S8510

Simplicity Sewing Pattern 1930s Misses' Vintage Brassiere and Panties

$16.07

S8506
S8506

Simplicity Sewing Pattern 1930s Misses' Vintage Set of Sleeves

$16.07

S8695
S8695

Simplicity Sewing Pattern 1930s Misses' Vintage Set of Sleeves

$16.07

V9294
V9294

Vogue Patterns 1930s Misses' Dress

$24.50

M8338
M8338

McCall's Sewing Pattern 1930s Misses' Vintage Dresses and Belt

$16.07

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1940's

Home Sewing Sweeps the Nation and "The Core 4" are Established

  • 1940's

    During WWII, due to rations, Simplicity and Vogue Patterns became known for sewing patterns that required minimal fabric and could be upcycled from existing dresses and suits.

  • 1940's

    Fashion Trend: The Vogue Patterns semi-formal brides dress sewing pattern from the 1940s was particularly notable for its elegance and detailed instructions, reflecting the era’s fashion trends.

  • 1946

    Simplicity Patterns Sponsored the 1st 4H Dress Review/Fashion Show and continued to be the main sponsor for the next 40 years.

  • 1949

    Vogue Patterns launched Vogue Paris Originals, sewing patterns drafted directly from the designers’ own working muslin patterns with runway worthy dresses and suits from Parisian fashion designers: Pierre Balmain, Jacques Fath, Jacques Heim, Lanvin, Molyneux, Paquin, Robert Piguet et Schiaparelli.

1940's Style
S8447
S8447

Simplicity Sewing Pattern 1940s Misses' Vintage Pants, Overalls and Blouses

$14.67

S8462
S8462

Simplicity Sewing Pattern 1940s Misses' Vintage Blouse, Skirt and Lined Bolero

$16.07

S8654
S8654

Simplicity Sewing Pattern 1940s Misses' Vintage Skirt, Shorts and Tie Top

$16.07

S8876
S8876

Simplicity Sewing Pattern 1940s Misses'/Women's Vintage Dress and Stole

$16.07

S8932
S8932

Simplicity Sewing Pattern 1940s Misses' Vintage Bikini Top, Shorts, Wrap, Skirt and Coat

$16.07

V1669
V1669

Vogue Patterns 1940s Misses' Outerwear

$24.50

V1863
V1863

Vogue Patterns 1940s Misses' Blouse, Skirt and Belt

$22.40

V1963
V1963

Vogue Patterns 1940s Misses' Evening Dress

$25.20

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1950's

A New Look into the 50's with European Designers

  • 1952

    The Butterick Walk-Away Dress is received so well, Butterick halted the production of all its other dressmaking patterns until backorders were fulfilled. The original sewing pattern, known as Butterick 6015 was subsequently published with many variations.

  • 1957

    Hubert de Givenchy is licensed by McCall's and introduced to the US home sewer with a headshot and newsletter inserted into the pattern envelope.

  • 1958

    Simplicity Patterns became one of the fastest-growing pattern companies, opening offices in Canada, London, and Australia, and distributing patterns in over 60 countries. In August 11, 1958 Simplicity was admitted to the NY Stock Exchange.

  • 1959

    Vogue Patterns licenses ensembles by Yves Saint Laurent for Christian Dior beginning a 40+ year relationship with both design houses.

1950's Style
B4790
B4790

Butterick Sewing Pattern 1950s Misses' Walk-Away Wrap Dress

$11.87

V1864
V1864

Vogue Patterns 1950s Misses' Wrap Dress

$22.40

B6938
B6938

Butterick Sewing Pattern 1950s Misses' Halter Dress and Jacket

$16.07

B6956
B6956

Butterick Sewing Pattern 1950s Misses' Dress with Sleeve Variations

$16.07

V1979
V1979

Vogue Patterns 1950s Misses' Dresses

$25.20

S9882
S9882

Simplicity Sewing Pattern 1950s Misses' Skirt and Jacket

$16.77

V2003
V2003

Vogue Patterns 1950s Misses' Dress and Petticoat

$25.20

V2061
V2061

Vogue Patterns 1950s Misses' Dresses and Stole

$25.20

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1960's

Committed to Education and the Future of Home Economics in Public Schools

  • 1960s

    Simplicity launches the Jiffy line representing their core mission: to make sewing enjoyable and achievable for all who want to learn. Focusing on easy-to-sew instructions and minimal pieces.

  • 1961

    Butterick purchased the license for Vogue Patterns from Condé Nast Publications, incorporating the high-fashion designs​ and moniker.

  • 1965

    McCall’s released 9 patterns adapted from André Courrèges for the Fall. The same year, an editorial titled: “The Look of Courrèges” was featured in the home catalog.

  • 1966

    Vogue Patterns licensed 5 Yves Saint Laurent dresses from the “Mondrian et Poliakoff” Collection. The iconic shift dress was a massive trend for 60's inspired by the modern paintings of Mondrian.

  • 1967

    Vogue Patterns begins a 50+ year licensing relationship with Belinda Bellville and David Sassoon known as Bellville Sassoon.

1960's Style
V1885
V1885

Vogue Patterns 1960s Misses' Special Occasion Dress

$22.40

M8402
M8402

McCall's Sewing Pattern 1960s Misses' Dresses in Two Lengths with Choice of Three Necklines

$16.07

S1609
S1609

Simplicity Sewing Pattern Misses' Jiffy 1960s Vintage Dress

$12.57

S9819
S9819

Simplicity Sewing Pattern 1950s Misses' Dresses and Jacket

$16.77

S9845
S9845

Simplicity Sewing Pattern 1960s Misses' Dress in Two Lengths

$16.77

S9846
S9846

Simplicity Sewing Pattern 1960s Misses' Dress

$16.77

S9847
S9847

Simplicity Sewing Pattern 1950s Misses' Coat in Three Lengths

$16.77

S9884
S9884

Simplicity Sewing Pattern 1960s Misses' Dress in Two Lengths

$16.77

S9915
S9915

Simplicity Sewing Pattern 1960s Misses' Dresses

$16.77

B6991
B6991

Butterick Sewing Pattern 1960s Misses' Dress with Sleeve Variations

$16.07

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1970's

From the runway to your home, the new era of designer sewing patterns is center stage.

  • 1972

    Studies show 90% of ALL teens sew creating 70M garments annually.

    Butterick launched its Betsey Johnson for Alley Cat sewing patterns in the Spring catalogue. Later to be rebranded as Betsy Johnson.

  • 1973

    Simplicity introduced sewing for Men & Boys also the same year Jiffy patterns were sized for stretch knits.

  • 1976

    Diane von Furstenberg wrap dress is released by Vogue Patterns becoming an iconic moment. Allowing home sewers to affordably create the famous dress.

  • 1979

    McCall's goes full DISCO with the signing of the Bob Mackie license for stretch knit dresses, and jumpsuits.

    Vogue’s licensing of Ralph Lauren women’s wear begins. The earliest Ralph Lauren women’s patterns were for Diane Keaton starring in "Annie Hall" and Western looks: prairie skirts, fringe, and serapes worn with cowboy boots and concho belts.

    Vogue 2080 by Gianni Versace for Complice on the cover of Vogue Patterns, January/February 1979.

    Calvin Klein Men's and Women's designs are included as part of Vogue American Designer line featuring models Beverly Johnson and his 80's muse model Josie Borain.

1970's Style
M8358
M8358

McCall's Sewing Pattern 1970s Misses' Vintage Wrap Dress by Laura Ashley

$16.07

S5555
S5555

Simplicity Sewing Pattern 1970s Misses' Vintage Jiffy Knit Wrap and Tie Top

$16.07

M8430
M8430

McCall's Sewing Pattern 1970s Misses' Robe and Nightgown

$16.07

M8431
M8431

McCall's Sewing Pattern 1970s Misses' Top and Skirt

$16.07

V2000
V2000

Vogue Patterns 1970s Misses' Wrap Dress by Diane von Furstenberg

$25.20

M8490
M8490

McCall's Sewing Pattern 1970s Misses' Tops, Skirt and Petticoat by Laura Ashley

$16.07

V2040
V2040

Vogue Patterns 1970s Misses' Front Wrap Dresses by Diane von Furstenberg

$25.20

V2041
V2041

Vogue Patterns 1970s Misses' Jumpsuit in Two Lengths

$25.20

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1980's

The Bold 80s when “Bigger is Better” and “More is More” Ruled Fashion

  • 1980

    Supermodel Iman graces multiple covers, inside editorials, and pattern envelopes for Vogue Designer Original Jean Muir while also appearing for Vogue Paris Original designers Yves Saint Laurent and Emanual Ungaro.

  • 1983

    Living legend Diana Ross licenses designs to Simplicity. The Superstar models the garments ranging from gowns to swimwear on the pattern catalog cover, inside editorial and envelopes with an autograph logo.

  • 1984

    Emmy® Award winning "Dynasty" TV Costume Designer Nolan Miller signs with McCall's launching "Nolan Miller's Dynasty Collection" for McCall's. The "Dynasty" stars Joan Collins, Linda Evans and Diahann Carroll modelled the designs in McCall's magazine, pattern catalog, and autographed packets.

    Model turned actress Lauren Hutton releases her Signature Collection with Simplicity Patterns. She previously modeled for Vogue Patterns appearing in the catalog and on envelopes in the 1960's and 1970's.

  • 1985

    Brooke Shields debuts her "Brooke" Fashion Collection with McCall's including McCall's Crafts and Easy McCall's. Regularly appearing on the cover of McCall's Magazine, pattern catalogs, and autographed packets.

    Simplicity taps Oscar® winning actress Ali McGraw for her own line of clothing and soft accessories. She appears modeling on the Simplicity's pattern catalog cover and envelope with autograph.

1980's Style
M8318
M8318

McCall's Sewing Pattern 1980s Misses' Dresses and Blouses by Laura Ashley

$16.07

V1902
V1902

Vogue Patterns 1980s Misses' Blouse

$22.40

V1980
V1980

Vogue Patterns 1980s Misses' Blouse

$25.20

M8463
M8463

McCall's Sewing Pattern 1980s Misses' Blouse, Vest, Skirt and Petticoat by Laura Ashley

$16.07

M8491
M8491

McCall's Sewing Pattern 1980s Misses' Unlined Jacket

$16.07

S9966
S9966

Simplicity Sewing Pattern 1980s Misses' Tops

$16.77

M8500
M8500

McCall's Sewing Pattern 1980s Misses' Knit Dress and Jumpsuits

$16.07

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1990's

Badgley Mischka

Refined and accessible designs featuring a new range of multi-sizing value patterns from the UK.

  • 1992

    Marc Jacobs for Perry Ellis release iconic Grunge line for Spring 1993 licensing several straight from the runway looks to Vogue Patterns.

  • 1993

    Donna Karan extends her license to include DKNY.

    Vogue Attitudes releases the first of many Badgley Mischka designs and 31 years later they continue to excel.

  • 1995

    Anna Sui is introduced to home sewers with her own Vogue Pattern cover.

    Vera Wang starts with the cover of May/June issue of Vogue Patterns magazine and catalog. Her signature sheer mesh sleeves and cuts outs are revolutionary.

  • 1996

    John Galliano for Givenchy releases THE dress of the season for Vogue Paris Original. The empire waist dresses are featured on the runway, on the Vogue Pattern Catalog Cover and inside Vogue Magazine an editorial starring Linda Evangelista.

1990's Style
V1960
V1960

Vogue Patterns Misses' Jacket, Knit Top and Pants

$24.50

V1961
V1961

Vogue Patterns Misses' Top, Skirt and Pants

$24.50

M8432
M8432

McCall's Sewing Pattern 1990s Misses' Pants

$16.07

M8433
M8433

McCall's Sewing Pattern 1990s Misses' Jacket

$16.07

V2009
V2009

Vogue Patterns Misses' Dress by Badgley Mischka

$25.20

S9922
S9922

Simplicity Sewing Pattern Misses' Corsets

$15.37

N6779
N6779

New Look Sewing Pattern Misses' Bra Top and Pants

$3.99

S9959
S9959

Simplicity Sewing Pattern Unisex Cargo Pants

$15.37

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2000's

Entertainment licensing conquers fashion and the rise of the "social media influencer"

  • 2000's

    The Core 4 and their subsidiaries are consolidated under CSS leading to a total restructuring of the crafting and home sewing industry.

    Butterick was purchased by McCall's Pattern Company and relocated operations.

  • 2010

    Rachel Comey releases her first designs with Vogue Patterns.

  • 2014

    Simplicity takes a chance on a new concept: "Lifestyle & Home Sewing Influencer" Mimi G and her fun and funky inclusive design styles.

  • 2015

    Cosplay by McCall’s launched. Yaya Han became the first cosplayer to launch a cosplay-centric line of patterns with McCall’s.

  • 2018

    Harry Potter Robes and Hogwarts Houses are released by Simplicity with iron on patches.

2000's Style
M8114
M8114

McCall's Sewing Pattern Misses' Tops

$13.97

M8255
M8255

McCall's Sewing Pattern Misses' and Women's Tops

$13.97

M8368
M8368

McCall's Sewing Pattern Misses' Knit Tops and Pants

$15.37

V1938
V1938

Vogue Patterns Misses' Tops

$24.50

S9947
S9947

Simplicity Sewing Pattern Misses' Knit Dress with Sleeve and Length Variations

$16.07

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2020's

Global Pandemic Boosts Sustainability- and Inclusivity-Minded Influencers

  • 2020

    Design Group (DG Americas) acquires CSS and The Core 4 plan a future of rebuilding in a new landscape of competition.

  • 2021

    Simplicity.com is reorganized by consolidating several websites and The Core 4 with sub-entities into one e-commerce platform.

  • 2022

    Sewn Adaptive, founded by a Hollywood costumer and bespoke tailor from Pasadena CA, license special inclusive designs for people with disabilities to Simplicity.

    Know Me by Mimi G is launched with 12 new designers being introduced with inclusivity at the forefront. Motto: By Makers for Makers.

  • 2023

    Brandi Joan launches with McCall's patterns.

  • 2024

    Raine Emery Cosplay & Home Sewing Influencer releases "Spellbinding Couture" Collection of sewing pattern designs for Halloween.

2020's Style
M8407
M8407

McCall's Sewing Pattern Misses' Knit Bodysuit and Top by Brandi Joan

$16.07

V2034
V2034

Vogue Patterns Misses' Shorts and Pants

$24.50

V2035
V2035

Vogue Patterns Misses' Jumpsuit by Rachel Comey

$25.20

S9945
S9945

Simplicity Sewing Pattern Misses' Dress and Jumpsuit by Mimi G Style

$16.77

S9954
S9954

Simplicity Sewing Pattern Misses' Skirts

$15.37

S9955
S9955

Simplicity Sewing Pattern Misses' Shorts and Pants

$15.37

ME2089
ME2089

Know Me Sewing Pattern Misses' Jackets by Brittany J. Jones

$11.17

ME2094
ME2094

Know Me Sewing Pattern Misses' Dress by Beaute' J'adore

$11.17

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