 My heart skips a beat when I stumble upon an old sewing pattern—especially for a classic Chanel jacket. There’s something beautiful about those yellowed sheets of paper, sometimes marked with pencil notes from a previous owner, as if they’re whispering, “Bring me back to life.” I adore vintage sewing patterns, whether they’re from the ’50s, ’60s, or ’70s. They feel like little treasures, full of stories and craftsmanship. And yes, some are truly worth their weight in gold—but not always for the reasons you’d expect. Why Vintage Patterns Are a Sewist’s Best Friend First, there’s the fit. Chanel jackets from that era were often brilliantly designed, with details that many modern patterns lack. Coco Chanel was a genius at blending comfort and elegance, and the patterns inspired by her work (or from her time) often have thoughtful touches: precise armhole placements, clever seams, and finishes that ensure the jacket drapes beautifully without pulling or bunching. And the instructions? Often so detailed it feels like a seasoned seamstress is guiding you every step of the way. Then there’s the timelessness. A real Chanel jacket never goes out of style. Whether the pattern is from 1955 or 1965, the result still looks effortlessly chic. That’s something you can’t always say about today’s “trendy” patterns, which can feel outdated in a single season. Plus, there’s something special about sewing the same jacket your grandmother or great-grandmother might have worn. It’s like stitching yourself into a legacy.  But Beware: Not Everything Is Perfect Of course, there are challenges. The sizing, for one. A size 38 from the 1960s is often much smaller than a modern 38—sometimes two sizes smaller! That means you’ll likely need to make adjustments or sew a muslin first. And the fabrics from back then aren’t always easy to find. Tweed is still around, but the exact weight and texture might differ.
And then there’s the style. Some vintage patterns have details that feel a little dated now--oversized lapels, quirky buttons, or a silhouette that doesn’t quite match today’s tastes. But the good news? You can easily tweak those elements. Or, if you’re feeling nostalgic, lean into the vintage vibe for a fun throwback look. Where to Find These Hidden Gems Now for the fun part: the hunt! I’ve found some of my best patterns in the most unexpected places. Here’s where to look:
Are They Worth Their Weight in Gold? Some are, absolutely! Authentic Chanel patterns (if they even exist—Chanel didn’t sell them, but many were inspired by her designs) can be pricey, especially if they’re rare or in pristine condition. But even non-Chanel vintage patterns are often worth it. It’s not just about the monetary value—it’s the joy of creating something with history, something that fits you in every sense of the word. Start Hunting! Whether you’re a seasoned sewist or just starting out, working with vintage patterns is an adventure. You’ll learn patience, creativity, and a little bit of history along the way. And the best part? You’ll end up with a jacket that’s not just beautiful, but full of stories. So dig through that old sewing box, browse Marketplace, or ask your grandma about her “old things.” You might just find the pattern for your next masterpiece—and become the latest in a long line of proud Chanel jacket wearers. Comments are closed.
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Since 2018
Sewing Chanel-Style is all about sharing information, sewing pattern-reviews, book-reviews and lots of sewing guides for sewing-beginners and advanced seamstress.
Marga van der Vet
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