1953 Ribbon Bolero Sewing Pattern

This 1953 ribbon bolero sewing pattern creates a cropped jacket from rows of narrow picot-edged ribbon. Instead of conventional yardage, the joined ribbon becomes the fabric. The result is light, striped, and distinctly handmade.

The original pattern is sized Small or Medium, with adjustment guidance. The maker shapes ribbon sections into the front, back, and sleeves. Then seam binding, yarn, and decorative closures help stabilize and finish the bolero.

Original Materials

17 yards picot-edged ribbon, ¾ inch wide
Chadwick’s Red Heart Sock and Sweater Yarn, 1-ounce skein, to match or contrast
4 yards rayon seam binding to match ribbon
Coats & Clark O.N.T. sewing thread to match
2 pairs large braid-covered hooks and eyes, or small frogs
1 unsharpened pencil
Milwards darning needle

Modern Maker’s Notes

This is not a conventional fabric jacket. Therefore, ribbon stability matters as much as appearance. Before cutting the full amount, join several ribbon rows in a small sample. Then check stretch, body, and alignment.

The original seam binding adds important support. Keep the neckline, shoulders, front opening, and lower edge controlled. Hand basting can also help keep the ribbon rows aligned.

If you use modern ribbon, stay close to the original ¾-inch width. Otherwise, the scale of the whole construction will change.

What You Receive

Restored vintage Ribbon Bolero sewing pattern
Original materials list, cutting chart, and illustrated construction
Digital PDF download only — no physical item

Then & Now: Recreate the striped original. Or use tonal ribbon and matching yarn for a quieter evening layer over a sheath dress, camisole, or high-waisted skirt.

Explore more vintage sewing patterns in the Dazespast Archive.

1953 Ribbon Bolero Sewing Pattern | Small–Medium Adjustable | PDF Download