12 Kinds of Aprons You Never See Anymore

There were so many different styles back then.

Nowadays most kitchens, if there is an apron present at all, feature either a plain full apron or a half (or bistro) apron. But, there was a time when aprons were made in a huge variety of shapes and styles. Most of the time the lady of the house would have made these aprons and she would have been darn proud of them, too! Here are 12 styles of aprons that we never see anymore at all.

Via/ Flickr

12) Cobbler’s Aprons

This style was very practical because the high neckline protected more of the clothing underneath. The ample pockets were also quite helpful. Many women wore this type of apron when gardening or hanging out the laundry.

Via/ Vintage Patterns Wiki

11) Party Aprons

Sometimes also called hostess aprons, these were often made from chiffon or organza and featured decorations like bric-a-brac or delicate flower appliqués. They weren’t practical for preventing stains, but rather signaled who the hostess of the party was.

Via/ Vintage Patterns Wiki

10) Mother-and-daughter Aprons

There was a time when women made matching outfits and accessories with their daughters.

Via/ Vintage Patterns Wiki

9) Crocheted Aprons

These were not as practical as some aprons, but were oh-so-beautiful.

Via/ Flickr

8) Pinafore Aprons

This style tied in the back at the waist, but was pinned to a woman’s dress at the bust, hence the name.

Via/ Vintage Patterns Wiki

Crossback Aprons

This style was slipped on through the cross strings and sometimes had no other ties. Because of this it was comfortable and never needed adjusting, provided it was made to fit the person wearing it.

Via/ Flickr

6) Handkerchief Aprons

This style gets its name from the down-facing corners of the hem, much like a handkerchief turned at an angle.

Via/ Vintage Patterns Wiki

5) Scalloped Aprons

This type of apron was both practical and fetching, but took a bit longer to make than a plain hem apron.

Via/ Vintage Patterns Wiki

4) Embroidered Aprons

This style was truly a labor of love, but embroidery was once quite a common way to embellish homewares and clothing. In fact, it was considered a hobby to do in the evenings while listening to the radio.

Via/ Flickr

3) Sweetheart Aprons

The sweetheart neckline was particularly popular in the 1940 and early 1950s. It was very flattering and very feminine.

Via/ Vintage Patterns Wiki

2) Underbust Apron

These aren’t that common to find today, but the sewing pattern below is proof that they did exist!

Via/ Vintage Patterns Wiki

1) Ruffled Aprons

The frilly aprons of the past are long gone. But, in years past ruffles might have been added to any of the above styles to lend a bit more flair and feminine style to an apron. After all, the woman making the apron would have to wear it pretty much every single day.

Via/ Vintage Patterns Wiki
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