18 Vintage Knitting Patterns from the 1950s
These vintage patterns will take you ALL the way back!
Put on your red lipstick and take the curlers out of your hair — we're taking a trip back in time with our knitting needles to one of my favorite decades: the 1950s. Defined by its elegant and feminine attire, 1950s clothing embodies a bolder era of style. People took more risks, outfits were tailored closer to the body and dresses were strapless with fuller skirts. It's classic characteristics like this that gives the 50s an irresistible allure that keeps people craving retro-inspired designs every year.
50s influence even extends to the runway. Each year designers are seeking ways to put modern twists on classic favorites, all while keeping the decade's original charm intact. Thankfully, with so many free vintage knitting patterns available, creating your own vintage-inspired wardrobe couldn't be simpler. In this collection of 1950s patterns, you'll discover elegant wraps, mittens, sweaters and shawls — all which will fill your closets full of classic clothing that's rich with fifties style.
1. Capri Cardigan
Wrap yourself in a gorgeous knit sweater that transcends time with the Capri Cardigan. If you know how to knit a sweater, you're already that much closer to having this darling knitted accessory in your arsenal.
2. Beacon Hill Shawl
For times when the weather isn't quite warm enough for your bold, strapless dress, a lacy knit shrug provides an ideal remedy.
3. Raglan V-Neck
You can never have too many sweaters; they're a staple in anyone's closet. Ideal for both dressy and casual affairs, the right knit sweater makes staying warm as easy and fashionable as possible.
4. Women's Pullover Style No. 126
Even though this pattern is from 1958, this classic sweater is still in style. The Women's Pullover Jumper Style No. 126 is a classic top that will take you places.
5. Sonata Shawl
As a variation of a basic rectangle, you don't need to know any advanced knitting tricks to make this shawl. A simple lace pattern offers some visual interest and makes the shawl fun to knit.
6. Rosie the Riveter Knit Cardigan
The Rosie the Riveter Knit Cardigan is certain to impress, and all eyes will be on you when you wear this pretty knit sweater layered over your favorite dress or pair of pants.
7. Lacy Shruggy
The thin, fingering-weight yarn gives this knitting pattern a light and lacy look and keeps you from getting overheated under thick, warm yarn when you're indoors.
8. Knit Slipover Sweater
The closely knit stitches keep you safe from windchill while the pattern stitch used gives this knit sweater just the stunning vintage look that is sure to turn a few heads.
9. Armande Cardigan
This bright and colorful cardigan is the perfect vintage knitting pattern to try if you're new to cardigans!
10. Mad Men Mittens
These cozy, fair isle mittens are sported by Peter Campbell's secretary, Lindy, throughout Mad Men, and now you can make your very own pair.
11. Blue And White Afghan
12. Allegro Shawl
The Allegro Shawl captures the essence of a time gone by in a classic design that will look fashionable whenever you choose to wear it.
13. Contralto Shawl
This shawl is perfect for wearing around the house or office; it's fashionable enough to wear out and about.
14. Mrs. Roosevelt's Mittens
This knitted mittens pattern is adapted from one that the famous first lady created herself. Mrs. Roosevelt’s Mittens is a simple, functional pattern that will keep your fingers toasty and warm.
15. Botany Striped Scarf
Easy enough to be taken up by a beginner knitter, this knit scarf pattern is simple yet absolutely stunning.
16. Little Scarf
The Little Scarf is a manageable, quick project that is wonderfully practical. You can pair this scarf with almost any outfit, and it is designed to keep your neck nice and warm.
17. Vintage "Slim Silhouette" Blouse and Skirt
This stunning dress will give you a beautiful, vintage silhouette, and because it's knitted in two separate pieces, it comes together easier than you might expect.
18. Shepherd Tartan Cardigan
To give your man a look straight from the 1950s, try free vintage knitting patterns like the Shepherd Tartan Cardigan.
Up Next:
Lightweight Knit Sweater Patterns
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Hippie Chick
Nov 08, 2018
Look at those vintage patterns and the pictures that go with them are priceless. I love looking at old retro stuff like this just to see how things have changed and how things have stayed the same also. The fashion trends, the hairstyles, the accessories of that time period are just so classic. Love this collection.
Iceni
Mar 22, 2017
Hi , I am looking for a simple patchwork ladies knitted sweater pattern or a geometric design.
kdtp17 5492906
Aug 09, 2015
I am looking for a vintage pattern from the late 50s or very early 60s. It's a cardigan blouse-type sweater. I think it had a Shaker stitch rib that gave it the blouse-like look. I know it had a seed stitch button band and wrist and waist bands. And all the seed stitch trim was on a smaller needle than the sweater, which also gave it a blouse look at the wrists and waist. Does it ring a bell with anyone? It was in a regular knitting book like the Brunswick books of that day. Maybe 12 or so patterns to a book. Thanks for your help.
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