Rosie the Riveter, 1942

Rosie the Riveter on the cover of McCall's magazine, September 1942
McCall’s magazine, September 1942. Image: Envisioning the American Dream.

During World War 2, women engaged in wartime work could choose from a variety of sewing patterns for work wear. The array of coveralls available included the mechanic suit, a close cousin to the siren suit or air raid suit (see my earlier post here). This 1942 pattern from Simplicity shows a khaki version paired with a garrison cap:

1940s WW2 military coverall pattern - Simplicity 4104 (1942)
Simplicity 4104 (1942) Image: Vintage Patterns Wiki.

(You can see a contemporary photo of View 1 at Unsung Sewing Patterns.)

Happy Labour Day, everyone!

One thought on “Rosie the Riveter, 1942

  1. I’m considering making a pair of coveralls as part of a sew along. My pattern is McCall’s 8520. It was printed post WWII as more of a recreational option for women.

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