Calling all vintage fashion lovers! It’s time to take a step back in time to explore the beloved loungewear of the 1920s-1950s. From cozy waffle weave pajamas to glamorous silk charmeuse satin robes, this era of fashion was coveted for its effortless glamour and comfort — a combination that still resonates with us today. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the rich history of these pieces, thru their iconic designs via images and ads.
Let’s take a look at the delightful evolution of loungewear that defined these era’s fashions.
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Vintage Pajamas & Loungewear of the 1920s-1950s
Vintage Shopping: I have created an Etsy Collection of vintage pajamas & loungewear (plus sewing patterns) that is updated monthly that you can purchase right now. Find it HERE.
The 1920’s
A romantic and feminine vintage 1920s peachy pink silk and lace pajama set.
Source: Etsy
1928 Glover Men’s Pajamas Ad. “There is sheer joy—just in wearing them“.
Source: Attic Paper
1920’s Ladies’ pajama set sewing pattern. Featuring a robe, trousers and top.
Source: eBay
Superb pair of 1920s pyjamas in the most delightful, light-as-a-feather French cotton voile.
Source: Etsy
Found in a 1925 Catalog, a beautiful McCall Pattern for 1920s Women’s 2 Piece Pajamas with the prettiest of details.
Source: Vintage 4 Me 2
You could also go a bit more sexy with a vintage 1920s blush pink silk lingerie teddy shorts combination (avail as of May 2023 HERE). This feels to me like something a Flapper would wear. I love it!
Source: Etsy
The 1930′s
1930s Lounging Pajamas.
1930s Lounging Pajamas as seen in this vintage sewing pattern. So pretty!
Vintage 1930s Pajama Loungewear Set Striped Rayon Jersey Wide Leg Satin Pants.
Source: Etsy
1930’s Men’s Pajamas sewing pattern. I love the pocket squares, because you never know when you may need to use it.
Source: Etsy
1930s Saybury iridescent blue brocade zipper housecoat dress. That BLUE! Love it!
Source: Etsy
The 1940’s
1940s vintage photo of slumber party shenanigans, 1944.
Source: Tumblr
1940s Vintage Sewing Pattern from Du Barry featuring Misses Long and Two Piece Pajamas. Adorable!
Vintage 1940s Rayon Floral Robe-So Elegant!
Source: Etsy
This 16-page (including cover) magazine was issued in the early 1940s (Weldon’s Home Dressmaker, No. 568), at the height of the Swing era, and features a number of illustrations, photographs, and articles regarding fashion and lifestyle.
Source: Etsy
Gorgeous 1940s Pink Rayon Liquid Satin Dressing Gown (avail as of May 2023).
Source: Etsy – MamaLovesYouVintage
Men’s slip over pajamas c. 1940 as seen on this vintage sewing pattern.
Source: Old Patterns
1945 Simpsons Catalog Page featuring, New Pajama Fashions for Spring (Plus Housecoats & Wrap-Arounds).
FURTHER READING: Inside a Canadian Simpson’s Catalogue: Women’s Fashions of Spring and Summer 1945
While not an exact match the below silk nightgown from the 1940s reminds me a bit of the one on the bottom right in the above ad (Avail as of May 2023 HERE).
Source: Etsy
1940s Men’s Dressing Gowns.
Source: Pinterest
The 1950’s
1950s Vintage Le Roy sewing pattern featuring a full Length Nightdress or Pajamas with Optional Trouser Lengths.
Source: Etsy
Drool!! Vintage 1950s batik cotton rayon jacket and pant lounge set.
Source: Etsy
1952 Sears Wish Book Christmas Catalog page featuring a slew of different Pajamas and Nightwear styles to chose from.
Source: Sears Wishbookweb.com
1950s BEAUTIFUL Peignoir (a woman’s light dressing gown or negligee), Nightgown and Bed jacket Sewing Pattern.
Source: So Vintage Patterns
How cute is this 1950s chiffon robe with Peter Pan collar and in a lime green chiffon? Love it! (Avail as of May 2023 HERE).
Source: Etsy
Vintage 1950s Pink Dressing Gown Floral Robe. I love a good dressing gown and I own a couple myself.
Source: Etsy
1950’s Men’s pajamas, “For Sleeping & Lounging”: 1952 Sears Christmas Catalogue.
Source: WishbookWeb.com
It’s a Pajama Party 1950s Record featuring teenage girls having a fun slumber party wearing 1950s PJs.
Source: 1950s Unlimited
I have to say WHAT STYLE! Seriously these loungewear (especially the 30s) is so delightful and elegant and cool (sorry men, yours is just “normal”). You can’t help but feel elegant all the time.
Question Time: What was your favourite PJ/ Loungewear style above? Share in the comments below.
FURTHER READING:
Vintage Shopping: I have created an Etsy Collection of vintage pajamas & loungewear (plus sewing patterns) that is updated monthly that you can purchase right now. Find it HERE.
And keep staying safe friends!
Liz
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