McCalls 1641: 1950s Misses Pleated Cocktail Apron Fits All Vintage Sewing Pattern
Original 1951 McCall's Pattern No. 1641 - Short Aprons for Mother and Daughter
Original 1951 McCall's Printed Pattern No. 1641, offering three short apron styles marketed as "Short Aprons for Mother and Daughter" — a gingham bib apron with contrast pocket, a striped apron with a huck-weave or cross-stitch panel, and a floral appliqué apron trimmed in ric-rac. One Size. Uncut, with the transfer uncut.
Quick Facts
- Pattern Number: McCall's No. 1641
- Year: 1951
- Garment: Short Aprons for Mother and Daughter (3 Views)
- Size: One Size
- Condition: Uncut but Not Factory Folded
- Transfer: Uncut
Design
McCall's Pattern 1641 gathers three coordinating short-apron styles under one envelope. View A is a gingham check bib apron with a contrasting white pocket and self-fabric ties, styled for a younger wearer. View B pairs a striped ground with a woven or cross-stitched village-scene panel, worked either in huck toweling or embroidered directly with perle cotton or six-strand floss. View C uses a floral chintz appliqué motif set against a solid ground and finished with ric-rac trim. The pattern includes five pieces, one transfer, and an instructional leaflet, with directions given in English, French, and Spanish.
A Moment in Fashion History
By 1951, McCall's had begun styling itself "McCall's" rather than "McCall" on its envelopes, part of a broader postwar push toward a more polished, contemporary brand identity. Short bib and half-aprons like these were prized as much for their handwork opportunities — cross-stitch, huck weaving, appliqué — as for their kitchen practicality, and coordinating "mother and daughter" styling reflected the era's enthusiasm for matching home-sewn ensembles.
Illustration
The cover illustration has been digitally restored and enhanced by Judy Yates to highlight the original fashion artwork while preserving the character and artistry of this historic McCall's pattern envelope.
Connections
This pattern is part of our Kitschy Kitchen exhibit, a growing collection celebrating the whimsical, decorative side of mid-century kitchen textiles. While I love everything about McCall, it must be said, "McCall Makes the Cutest Aprons!"
