vintage costume patterns and ideas

As I have been organizing my collection of sewing patterns, I came across quite a few vintage costume patterns I’ve managed to collect over the years.  If you’ve got an eye for detail, here are a few 1970’s and 1980’s treasures to feast upon this Halloween week:

I made a clown costume a few years ago, by sewing together a bunch of bright silky scarves my mother-in-law had given me. It turned out great, and made loose enough, warm clothes can be worn underneath the costume for those in colder climates. Some good (slightly creepy) but simple clown makeup shown above as well.

The classic cheerleader, baton twirler, Jan and Marsha Brady short skirt or dress pattern. Ice skates, roller skates… oh the memories come flooding back from the days I dreamed of being all of the above.

Oh yes, the hippie shirt. Jazzed up in so many different ways, don’t overlook the turtleneck option, subtle collegiate.

Classic ballerina, sparkly ribbons and rainbows, for Halloween or everyday.

Basic cowboy and Indian looks. I have a very easy Indian vest tutorial that looks like the cowboy one above and Indian headband tutorial for those in the market.

The poodle skirt, with tractors. Which means that you can really put whatever picture you wish on the bottom and it’ll work… especially if your waist looks as small as the gals in the pattern picture.  (google search:  “where can I find a corset”)

So many possibilities here… for Barbies. It’s so not fair, Barbies have it all (a dream house, Corvette, closets full of clothes, great hair….) including their own line of patterns.

I think I had this outfit, or at least I wished I did in my 80’s childhood. Just go back and watch Say Anything,  Sixteen Candles or any teen beat 80’s movie to see this ensemble in action. Denim, lace and ruffles all readily available at any local thrift shop.

The easily transferrable princess, witch, angel, nightgown robe garment. With the right fabric and add-ons this costume can be reinvented every year. Just a few last minute ideas thrown your way. I hope your costumes are coming together this year- ready in time for the big day!