I have a McCalls Sewing in Colour first published in 1964 - my edition dates from 1971. It was purchased using my Mum's spare cigarette coupons (wouldn't get those now would we!!!) It gives tips on what to wear for what occasion. For working in the home you can wear slacks or shorts but they must fit well otherwise your morale will be lowered (loose pants and an old T short are much more comfortable!) You shouldn't wear slacks or shorts to shop in a city department store! It also has advice on how to construct a myriad of clothes and illustations by the dozen.

It's now a historical thing as much as a reference book.

I also haved a wonderful Good Housekeeping Encyclopdedia of Needlecraft from the 1980's - great reference work.