1940s Vintage Simplicity Pattern 1944 Baby Girls WWII Sun Suit & Bonnet Sz 1
Original circa 1944 Simplicity Pattern No. 1944 - Child's Play Suit and Bonnet
Original circa 1944 Simplicity Printed Pattern No. 1944 for a child's play suit and matching bonnet, offered in two styles. The play suit is trimmed with back ruffles and crossed suspenders that button in front, with elastic casing at the back waistline. Style I finishes the ruffles in self fabric trimmed with rick rack; Style II uses embroidered edging instead. Uncut but Not Factory Folded.
Quick Facts
- Pattern Number: Simplicity No. 1944
- Year: Circa 1944
- Garment: Child's Play Suit and Bonnet (2 Styles)
- Size: 1 (20" Breast)
- Condition: Uncut but Not Factory Folded
Design
Simplicity 1944 keeps a warm-weather play suit genuinely simple across just seven pattern pieces. Tiered ruffles trim the back of the suit, gathered above an elastic-cased waistline for a comfortable, flexible fit, while suspenders cross at the back and button in front for a secure hold during active play. Style I finishes the ruffles in the same fabric as the suit, edged in rick rack for a bit of graphic contrast; Style II swaps this out for embroidered edging instead, for a softer, more delicate finish. The coordinating bonnet is fitted through the crown with darts, and tie ends hold it securely in place, with the same rick rack or embroidered edging carried through from the suit.
A Moment in Fashion History
Wartime fabric conservation shaped children's play clothes just as much as adult fashion, and Simplicity 1944 reflects that economy: a coordinated suit and bonnet using minimal fabric and simple elastic construction, suited to the practical, active needs of a young child at play, while still offering two distinct trim options to personalize the finished set.
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 Simplicity pattern envelope.
Connections
This pattern is part of our upcoming exhibit, Nursery Notions - maternity wear, layettes, crib covers, and quilts, the sewing life around having a baby. Come take a look.
