sew your own vintage style retro pin up swim suits with mrs depew vintage patterns

That dreaded time of year is upon us where we drag ourselves store to store looking for the perfect swim suit (one that fits great, is flattering, adorable and the right price).  Two summers ago, I decided to completely skip the bad dressing rooms and sew my own perfect swim suit, using Mrs Depew's one-piece bathing suit pattern.


svintage 1950s pin up swim suit sewing pattern rita hayworth from mrs depew


 A halter strap bandeau never goes out of style. Pair it with the beach shorts shown in the pattern or, for a style like the ladies pictured, try this bikini bottom.



The wonderful thing about sewing your own swimwear is that you can get a perfect fit every time. Buying separates has always been difficult because my swim bottom was always a different size from the top. I'd often pick a one-piece and alter it to fit anyway. Mrs Depew patterns come in print or draft at home and a few are available in paper, perfect for the girl who can't fit ready-to-wear beach wear. With the one-piece suit that I sewed, I was able to size the bust and hips to fit (with great coverage up top) and nip in the waist.


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Check out other beautiful projects made with Mrs Depew Patterns on the Mrs Depew Customer Gallery pin board 






the notebook movie allie's red beach swim suit and pom pom headband vintage sewing pattern from mrs depew

 Get the look from The Notebook in the 1940s beach shorts, turban and beach bra




1950s marilyn monroe or elizabeth taylor petal bust pin up bustier vintage sewing pattern from Mrs Depew

We all fell in love with Tasha's version of the Depew beach bustier. Embellish yours in pom pom trim, piping or contrast fabrics. Check out my tiki dress to see how I extended the torso portion of this bustier to make a fabulous bodice.

vintage marilyn monroe esther williams one piece skirted pin up swim suit sewing pattern



The classic skirted one-piece is on the covet list for many vintage ladies in the summer. This versatile pattern may be made in strapless or halter. I added decorative buttons and piping to my aqua blue and red version. Also check out Marilyn's red suit from How to Marry a Millionaire, made using the Depew one-piece pattern.


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sew your own vintage style pin up swimsuits