Big belly? No problem! Prosperously-Bellied Gentlemen need proper Victorian waistcoats too!
The waistcoat (or vest) had long been the display garment upon which a gentleman showed his good taste and devotion to luxury. But by the 1850s and 60s, the waistcoat was becoming a more subdued piece of clothing, made in checks and stripes to match the trousers. By the late 1860s, the waistcoat was an essential part of the three-piece lounge suit with all three garments made from the same fabric.
Use our easy-to-follow pattern to make a Men's Waistcoat (Vest) for the 1850s through 1900s redrafted for men whose bellies measure larger than their chests. Single- and double-breasted versions both included.
Fits chests 42"-60" and waists 44"-62". All sizes in one envelope.
Also included are assembly instructions, embellishment suggestions, and the extensive historical notes you've come to expect from Reconstructing History.
Suggested Fabrics: silk or wool; linen or lightweight silk for lining; medium to heavy linen for interlining (optional); medium linen or cotton for back
Notions: thread; up to 20 buttons for front closure; buttonhole floss; buckle for back belt
Yardage Requirements
Outer material 2 yds at least 45” wide
plain linen or cotton back 1 yd at least 45” wide
lining 2 yds at least 45” wide
interlining (optional) 1 yd at least 45” wide