Aprons Return to the Kitchen

Donna Reed wore an apron. Mrs. Cleaver wore an apron. All of the best t.v moms of the classic sit-coms wore aprons. Even pin-up girls wore aprons- and little else.

What is it about the humble apron that is so intriguing, so feminine, and so sexy while at the same time being so practical?

Whether you long for a bib apron with straps or a half apron with ruffles there is an apron for you. Aprons for men, aprons for women, aprons for children abound on the internet and are being snapped up in the thrift and antique shops. Aprons seem to be returning to the kitchen in droves.

Vintage aprons hold a special place in people's hearts. They are often beautiful whether they are the everyday variety or made for a hostessing occasion.

Not surprisingly, many people are collecting these vintage aprons. They are often inexpensive, and can be displayed in a number of creative ways:

• Hanging on hooks or pegs
• Used as valences in the kitchen
• Make an indoor clothesline against a wall
• Hang on a door knob
• Sew into a plastic bag holder
• Use your imagination!

Aprons were at their stylish peak during the 40s and 50s. Prior to that they were a mostly utilitarian garment however during those years a homemaker often had one apron for working in the kitchen and one for actually serving the food. It was a sign that she was an experience homemaker, good at her job.

By the 60s aprons began to be seen as a symbol of the oppression of women and were relegated to chefs and men at the grill. Women began wiping their hands on their comfy jeans, and the towel that was on the counter or conveniently tucked into a back pocket. For most aprons were passe.

In the past few years the resurgence of the popularity of aprons has been amazing. Maybe it is the desire to relive the graciousness and comfort of the American Dream of the mid century. Maybe it is because aprons are a great way to protect clothing. Maybe it is because they are just so darn cute!

Vintage aprons should be hand washed in mild soap and hung to dry away from direct sunlight. Stains can be rubbed with a little lemon juice and then the apron left in the sun to dry. Rinse well and wash as suggested.

As far as being collectible, you can find vintage aprons all over the internet. eBay is one place that they can be inexpensively purchased:

There are other great places to find these aprons. Thrift shops and garage sales, as well as Internet resources are full of one cute apron after another. Some of the best online resources are:

It isn't just vintage aprons that are being sought, though.

Aprons of all types are popular now. Funny aprons with humorous sayings, canvas aprons for men, and aprons for the Easy Bake Oven crowd. There are many cottage businesses that are providing aprons as fast as their sewing machines can go.

When you are choosing an apron consider how you cook and what your needs are. If you do a lot of baking then a full bib apron of a long wearing fabric like canvas is probably the best type for you. If you are cooking simple foods than a cut half apron may be what you are after.

Men who wear aprons when barbecuing often like the full canvas apron with funny sayings. These make great gifts for Father's Day!

Places to find aprons on the internet are:

Another way to get aprons is to sew them. You can use either vintage inspired fabric or any good quality cotton fabric. All of the big pattern companies make patterns for aprons of all styles.

You can also find free apron patterns online:

Whether you are collecting vintage aprons or wearing vintage inspired aprons, owning them can be a lot of fun.

When buying any aprons always check the seams and the quality of the fabric. When you are unable to do so, for example when you buy online, be sure that you thoroughly understand the return policy of the seller. Using Paypal can benefit because if there is something wrong with the item you can dispute the payment.

Enjoy these colorful reminders of a simpler era!