Early 1930s Step-in Combination Downloads | Past Patterns 6396

This 1930s Step-In Combination Downloads reproduces an original Ladies’ Home Journal design The 1930s Step-In Combination Downloads offered by Past Patterns reproduce Pattern 6396, originally published by The Ladies’ Home Journal and dated to March 1930. This elegant undergarment reflects the shift toward streamlined silhouettes and increased comfort that defined early 1930s lingerie. About These 1930s Step-In Combination Downloads As described on the original pattern envelope, this garment is a: “Ladies’ and Misses’ Step-in Combination, with opening at left side. Camisole style with shoulder straps. Front and back are slashed in from side edges and joined together.” This step-in design allows the garment to be worn easily, slipping on from below rather than over the head. The camisole-style straps and discreet left-side opening maintain smooth, uninterrupted lines, while the softly flared lower portion provides ease of movement and a period-correct drape. Original Sizing & Fit These 1930s Step-In Combination Downloads were drafted to fit the proportions of a 1930s Size 14, corresponding to a 32″ bust and 35″ hip. Sizing reflects historical standards rather than modern measurements. For assistance adjusting this pattern to other sizes, please consult our resizing resource: Past Patterns Guide to Resizing Vintage Patterns Pattern Details Number of pattern pieces: 4 Fabric required: 1½ yards of 35″ wide fabric Recommended fabrics: Silk, satin, rayon, or other lightweight, breathable materials appropriate for early 1930s undergarments Download File Formats Included 36″ wide format 8.5″ × 11″ (tiled) A4 (tiled) A0 (no split pieces) The instruction booklet is included in both 8.5″ × 11″ and A4 formats. What Your Download Includes Digitally restored, full-size pattern pieces A reproduction of the original Ladies’ Home Journal cover artwork Original material requirements chart Written sewing instructions, cutting notes, and period layout diagrams Historical notes on the early 20th-century paper pattern industry The Past Patterns Guide to Editing Garments Due to Bust Size Historical Context By 1930, publications such as The Ladies’ Home Journal shaped American women’s fashion by promoting garments that balanced elegance with practicality. Step-in combinations replaced earlier restrictive underlayers, reflecting changing expectations for comfort, mobility, and modern living. For additional historical reference, see: The Ladies’ Home Journal archive (Archive.org) Sewing Difficulty Difficulty Rating: 2/5 (Confident Beginner) These 1930s Step-In Combination Downloads feature a small number of pattern pieces and straightforward construction. Neat finishing at the side opening and careful handling of lightweight fabrics are the primary considerations. Difficulty criteria considered: number of pattern pieces, seam complexity, fabric handling, and period finishing methods. Printed Version Available This pattern is also available in printed format. View the printed version of Past Patterns 6396 Copyright Past Patterns 1979–2026. All rights reserved.