McCall's Fashion Crochet

1/10/2026

McCall's Fashion Crochet was published in 1965; however, it has patterns that were published between 1951 and 1965, so I'm including it in the 1950s group. This booklet includes patterns compiled from other McCall's sources in what I believe is supposed to be a progression of increasingly difficult patterns.

The booklet starts out with basic instructions on how to crochet and then begins with doll patterns. They show that the outfits are made from basic shapes that are sewn up in ways to make them clothing or bags. This seems like an excellent place to start.

Once you move past the doll clothes, the next project is a cardigan. Still working with some basic shapes, but on a human-sized level. Here, they show what a difference in the type of yarn can make. The one in front is crocheted with mohair and a fingering weight yarn held together and the back one is made in wool.

The next few projects are also sweaters, but they've added detail, like collars and pockets.

Men's Cardigan Jacket

Raglan Jacket

Long Line Jacket

Sister Jackets

After the sweaters, the projects get a little more complicated and require sewing skills since many of them have a lining sewn in.
The pink jacket uses 3000 sequins and 3000 crystal seed beads. The beads and sequins are added after the jacket is assembled.
The white Shell Stitch Ensemble is beautiful and uses nylon net on the inside of the pieces probably to keep it from losing it's shape along with an additional lining. The instructions for the lining are, "Assemble lining. Insert lining in coat."

Sequin-Trimmed Jacket

Shell Stitch Ensemble (Jacket and Skirt)

There are similar directions for the lining of the Pink Ribbon Dress and the Lace-Panel Dress, but the Striped Sailor Dress skips the lining.

Pink Ribbon Dress

Lace-Panel Dress

Striped Sailor Dress

This gorgeous evening coat uses a brocade lining, and while the crochet part might be good for beginner crocheters, I think you'll need some advanced sewing skills for the lining.