A great way to get around the small sizing of vintage patterns is to look for his and hers knitting patterns.
I’ve posted before on matching outfits for men and women in knitting patterns. This trend emerged in the 60’s as shaping of women’s knitwear became less fitted.
An advantage of his and hers knitting patterns is that they tend to be feature classic styles. Because the garments need to be plain enough to suit men (who have a lower tolerance for fancy details) but avoid looking mannish on a woman, they are often classic vee necks with simple texture stitches.
Until quite recently, most women’s patterns were only offered in 34-38 inch bust sizes. His and hers knitting patterns extend sizig up to 44 or even 46 inches which gives you a lot more options.
Unisex styling seems to have fallen out of favour lately – with the exception of the amusingly named Patons LadyMan socks.
I’m not particularly drawn to any of these patterns. Unisex styling has made them too bland and boxy for me, but I do like them as menswear. Maybe when I finish the jumper I started for Geoff six months ago I could try one of these.
