There’s nothing quite like vintage sleepwear; it’s always just that little bit luxurious, extra and ridiculously opulent which makes it something highly sought after for collectors. Vintage sleepwear is also very delicate which can make it difficult to actually use on a regular basis; personally, I use mine for photoshoots and very special occasions because I don’t want to damage any of the items I own. As an avid sewing enthusiast, I have recently started to look more into sleepwear patterns and have already made a few (check out this adorable attempt here). Getting over excited by all the delightful options of vintage and retro inspired sleepwear sewing aptterns, I wanted to share a great collection I have discovered from different decades in various styles for those also down the same rabbit hole as me.

Sometimes a sewing pattern can take your breathe away and for me, it was this Lady Marlowe Pattern 6664 from the 1940s. Featuring a stunning long night gown/lace negligee it has everything you need for an elegant and opulant gown. This pattern could also be altered to be an evening gown for those who would be willing to risk it (trust me I am tempted).

Let’s check out this incredible modern sleepwear Vogue pattern, V1834. With multiple pieces within the pattern, I love the lace sectioning which gives an elegant and vintage feel to the whole design. The overall style of all the pieces is certainly vintage inspired and can be made to look retro but also very opulent and luxurious. I am certainly a fan of the robe and think it would be a great base pattern for one of those crazy elegant “my husband died in mysterious circumstances” robes from Catherine D’Lish.

I know it’s a pyjama pattern but, I would absolutely wear this pattern out of the house because it’s so cute. True vintage Simplicity 2208 from the 1940s features two pyjama tops that can be mixed and matched with two different bottom covering options. I personally am obsessed with the tie up top and long wide leg pants but I will absolutely be making the long sleeve shirt option sooner or later because it’s adorable.
Find this pattern here.

For those who have a soft spot for the 80’s, this Butterick B6914 pattern is for you. With three separate pieces within this envelope, this pattern is certainly unique and I think it would be very customizable. This pattern would also be great for making a basic slip out of as well as some very cute and elegant sleepwear.
Available from Spotlight

For those wanting something other than a sleep gown, Simplicity pattern S9635 is an excellent place to start. Simplicity 9635 is an original 1940s Simplicity pattern which has been modernized and reprinted but I cannot really comment on the accuracy of it’s copy. This two piece traditional pyjama set features a button up collared shirt and matching wide leg trousers. I’m a particular fan of the different pocket options this pattern has because we all need snack holes before bedtime right?
Available from Spotlight.

When most people think of vintage sleepwear, they often picture this style of short sleep dress with it’s free flowing shape and sometimes the addition of a cute cover dress over the top. One of my favourite patterns for this style is true vintage Vogue 5725 which I have already sewn and shared here. This pattern was easy, fun and I really want to make it again very soon.

Lady Marlowe has some of the best vintage patterns which you can get and since each one is a perfect copy of an actual pattern, you don’t have to worry about designs selling out. I couldn’t complete this list without another Lady Marlowe pattern and this original Hollywood Pattern 1716 is something to write home about. This gorgeous wrap gown/negilgee has bows on the shoulders, a gathered bust, flattering waistband with different skirt size options. I think this pattern would be great for those with young babies who may need to be fed but also to those who find wrap garments easier to put on and take off.

A pattern I have been wanting to make and am currently in the process of creating is Simplicity 8799, a 1950s reproduction. This pattern features a simple night gown style with various skirt lengths and the option to have the negligee belted (attached ribbon) or not. A pattern such as this would be a great introduction to sewing vintage sleepwear.
Available from Spotlight.

Similar to the above pattern, Simplicity 4757 is a true vintage pattern from 1943 which is perfect for a two piece shirt and pants pyjama combination.
I found this copy on Etsy.

I have to stop myself there but there are so many great patterns out there that I had to share some honourable mentions. These patterns are all true vintage so they may take some hunting to track down but you never know what you will find out there.

Note: This is not a sponsored post. All opinions and thoughts expressed are solely my own and not influenced in any way. There are no affiliate links and I do not benefit from any link clicks or purchases made.