Is your wardrobe looking a little empty? Learn to sew an exquisite dress for yourself with our timeless collection of dress patterns for women! Our compilation of dress sewing patterns could be used for any occasion. We’ve got wedding or bridesmaid dress sewing patterns to help you embody the sophistication and beauty of a goddess! If you need to dress to impress at a business event, we also include patterns for elegant business attire.
How to sew a dress with dress patterns
- Select a dress pattern and read through the instructions and materials needed according to the pattern sheet.
- Equip yourself with all the tools and fabrics as indicated in the dress pattern. You may choose a different type of fabric from what’s recommended as long as it’s suitable for the dress and not difficult to work with!
- Prewash and iron out your fabrics! This is done to preshrink the fabric, prevent the color from bleeding and eliminate any chemicals. Here is a guide on how to pre-wash your fabric.
- Print your pattern out and cut your fabrics as instructed. Keep in mind that some of these tutorials may require you to hand-draft your own pattern and that most of the patterns provided below offer a range of sizes, so make sure you follow the right size!
- Now it’s time to get sewing! Make sure to follow the instructions closely.
What you may need
Here’s a list of tools and materials you should have at hand before starting on a dress pattern.
- Dress sewing pattern
- Fabric
- Tailor’s chalk/ Washable fabric marker
- Sewing Machine and Thread
- Pins/ Clips
- Scissors
- Ruler
- Invisible Zipper
- Measuring tape
Optional tools:
- Serger – An overlock machine used to make overlock stitches by trimming the edges and enclosing the seam allowances to create clean fabric edges.
- Different presser feet – Certain dress patterns may require specific presser foots such as zipper foot, ruffle foot, hemming foot, button foot and etc. Here’s an Introduction to Sewing Machine Presser Foots that could help you determine which types to use for your dress and any future projects.
- Bias tape
- Elastic
- Loop turner
- Fastenings/ Closures
- Buttons
Frequent Asked Question (FAQ)
1. Is it difficult to sew a dress?
Although sewing a dress may appear daunting, it is actually quite simple! Making a simple dress is an excellent way to improve your sewing skills and learn new techniques such as smocking, invisible zipper attachment, and so on!
Just make sure you’ve learned the fundamentals of hand-sewing, how to sew with a machine, and have some experience with other projects before embarking on your first dress! Check out more sewing patterns & tutorials from Craft Passion for more ideas on small projects to try!
2. What type of sewing machine should I use to sew clothes?
A sewing machine is essential for any adventurer embarking on their sewing journey! Certainly, you’ll need one for making yourself a dress out of yards of fabric and a spool of thread.
If you haven’t got your hands on one yet, check out our recommendations on Sewing Machines for Beginners. To ease your selection process, we’ve listed out a few models, their unique features, and some factors you should consider before making the purchase!
3. Which fabric should I use?
It’s best to use the materials listed in the pattern tutorial, but if they’re not available at your local fabric store, feel free to substitute! Here are some of the more commonly used fabrics in garment construction.
Cotton Voile:
A lightweight, sheer, and airy fabric that drapes softly. It is perfect for creating flowy and breathable layered dresses due to its translucence.
Cotton Lawn:
A lightweight, finely woven fabric that is smooth yet durable enough to give some structure to the dress.
Rayon Challis:
A lightweight woven fabric with a silk-like lavish feel to it. It works well for creating comfortable casual or bohemian-style dresses.
Knit Fabrics:
A comfy and stretchable textile. It’s great for body-hugging dresses that form your shape or casual wear, such as maxi dresses!
Double Gauze:
Double gauze consists of two layers of thin, gauzy fabric lightly tacked together. It’s soft and great for relaxed dresses on summer days.
Chiffon:
A sheer and lightweight fabric, chiffon is often used for flowy and ethereal gowns, particularly for eveningwear and special occasions.
Satin:
It’s a soft drapey fabric with a shimmery surface, making it a great choice for formal dress patterns.
Silk:
Known for its luxurious feel and lustrous appearance, silk drapes beautifully and adds a touch of sophistication to any design. It’s perfect for prom dress patterns or bridesmaid dress patterns!
4. What are the common seams in dress-making?
A seam is a line of stitching that joins two or more pieces of fabric. The following are some of the most common seam types used in dress marking:
Plain Seam:
This is the most basic type of seam where two fabric edges are aligned and stitched together with a straight stitch. It’s often used for lightweight and medium-weight fabrics.
Double-Stitched Seam:
This is equivalent to sewing two stitches down the fabric pieces to attach them for extra reinforcement.
Top-stitch:
This is when you sew a plain seam and press the seam allowance on one side before making a top stitch on the right side of the fabric. Here’s a video tutorial on how to top stitch!
French Seam:
A French seam is a neat and enclosed seam that encases the raw edges within the seam allowance. It’s commonly used for lightweight fabrics and creates a clean and finished look on the inside of the garment.
Flat-felled Seam:
It is a double-stitched, closed seam that is strong enough for tougher fabrics. The stitches are made to press the seam flat down and to make it appear less bulky. Watch the video tutorial on how to sew a flat-felled seam for fabrics of different weights.
Welt Seam:
A Welt seam is a strong seam that is similar to a flat-felled seam but exposes the raw edges of the fabric. After one stitch is made to sew the layers together, the top piece of fabric is folded, and another stitch is made to hold the raw edge down.
Hem Tape:
This tape is made of an adhesive that melts and glues two layers of fabric together. It is not permanent and will only last a few washes, so use it with caution.
6. How to finish the raw edges without using a serger?
If you don’t have a serger, there are a few other options for finishing raw edges and preventing fraying on a dress. Here are some alternatives seam finishes to consider:
Most commonly used
Zigzag Stitch:
Most sewing machines have a zigzag stitch. Set your sewing machine to a narrow zigzag stitch and sew along the raw edge of the fabric.
Overcast Stitch (Mock Overlock):
Some sewing machines include a foot or an overcast stitch for this purpose. It performs the same function as an overlocker/serger.
Could be useful
French Seam:
It is a stylish way to conceal raw edges that are commonly used in lightweight fabrics.
Flat-felled Seam:
Flat-felled Seam, like French seam, is a type of enclosed seam that conceals the raw edges within the folds.
Straight Stitch:
This method involves sewing a line of straight stitches along the tiny folded raw edge.
Binding with Bias Tape:
Bind the raw edges with bias tape to seal them.
Hand Overcasting:
You can hand-sew overcast stitches by wrapping the thread around the raw edge to prevent fraying.
Rarely used in garments
Pinking Shears:
Although not as secure as other methods, cutting the raw edges with pinking shears can reduce fraying.
5. Where can I purchase a paper pattern?
Aside from the dress patterns listed below, you can purchase paper patterns or PDF downloads from the following sewing pattern companies:
McCall
Butterick
Simplicity
Burda Style
Vogue
NewLook
KnowMe
Etsy
Some of these dress patterns include Sew-Along videos that you can watch while sewing your own.
What’s Next
- Begin sewing and post your finished product on Facebook and/or Instagram. Remember to tag us, @craftpassion, so we can see them.
- Pin it to Pinterest for future sewing projects.
- Share with your sewing group for a sew-along event.
- Learn more about hand-sewing basics and how to choose a sewing machine for beginners.
- Browse through more free sewing patterns to sew, particularly the wearables sewing projects.
The Top 30 Dress Patterns
Don’t miss out on these 30 dress patterns that are suitable for any occasion. We’ve covered a variety of looks, from casual to formal, sexy to elegant, and work to a beach vacation. You’ll find what you’re looking for.
Most of these patterns are free or include instructions on how to make your own pattern unless stated otherwise.
Flirty Paper Pieced Dress
It's a lot of fun to incorporate piecing into a standard fit-and-flare silhouette with a full skirt. The patchwork on this garment is paper pieced, and the circular skirt is made up of four quadrants, each of which is made up of six pieced strips. The skirt strips are arranged differently in each of the four corners to achieve the desired graduated pieced look. This sophisticated dress is available in sizes ranging from XS to XL, so almost anyone can try it on!
The Faux-Wrap Dress Tutorial
Here's an exquisite wrap dress pattern from Leanne Barlow! It's a comfortable slip-on that drapes elegantly across the body. If you'd like to use a semi-sheer fabric like chiffon or voile, it's best to have another liner fabric layered behind it. You'll also need an elastic for the waistband.
The Anthea Milkmaid Dress
Check out this free Anthea Milkmaid Dress pattern! This cottage-core dress pattern is suitable for a myriad of occasions, from sweet picnic dates to an outdoor wedding celebration! This pattern could be adjusted for sizes between 0-32.
Simple Sundress Pattern
This A-shaped sundress is fluid and airy with a nice flare at the bottom. It's the perfect project for beginners. Thin and soft fabrics are recommended for this pattern.
A DIY Lace Little Black Dress
The holidays are right around the corner! If you haven't decided what to wear to your next festive dinner, may we suggest this stylish little black dress? It's a sophisticated lace dress lined with black fabric that you could pair it with almost anything black!
The Rhodes Infinity Dress
An epitome of versatility, this Rhodes Infinity Dress could be styled in so many ways! This bridesmaid dress gracefully accentuates your curves, while the flowing A-line skirt adds an ethereal touch as you glide across the room. For this garment, it's recommended to use elastic fabric such as jersey.
DIY Cowl Neck Dress
Here's a beautiful cowl neck dress tutorial from That's Emma! Of course, drafting your pattern may sound like a chore, but we can guarantee that the end product is worth it! Her video even comes with a guide on installing an invisible zipper!
Emma used a blend of cotton and viscose to complete her dress, but you could opt for satin/silk to make it classier and chic or jersey for comfort and durability!
DIY Smocked Mini Dress
Here's a whimsical mini dress you could sew yourself this spring! It features a smocked bodice and puffed sleeves with ruffled edges that run along the neckline. This pattern gives you the option of making a midi or maxi dress. It's also available in US sizes 2-12.
Wide-Strap Maxi Dress
Looking for a breezy and comfortable maxi dress? We've got you covered! This dress has pockets and subtle side slits to allow for more movement! The pattern also comes in ten sizes.
The Ginger Dress
This sheath dress features a turtleneck collar and billowy bishop sleeves to give it an opulent charm. The top layer was made of geometrical lace, and the lining was made of white satin fabric, however, sateen or jacquard would also work well! This pattern comes in sizes up to 30.
DIY Cottage-core Maxi Dress
This Jess Dang cottage-core Maxi dress is a summer must-have! It perfectly hugs your waist, making it an ideal dress for curvy figures. The butterfly sleeves and deep V-neckline only add to its allure. The dress even has pockets and a zipper at the back.
Pinafore Trench Dress Pattern
This sleeveless semi-formal dress is suitable for both work and play! The front of the bodice features two rows of buttons that form a closure down the fitted dress. It also has a ribbon strap tied around the waist to give it a cinched waist look.
The Elderberry Dress
This Elderberry Dress is sure to turn heads at your next cocktail party! This formal dress pattern is available in sizes 2-30 and has two versions: one for woven fabric with an invisible zipper and one for stretchable fabric!
DIY Selkie Inspired Dress From A Sheet
What better way to recycle an old bedsheet than to create an enchanting Selkie-inspired dress? Its puffed sleeves and graceful ruffled hem draw attention to itself!
The video includes measurements for a standard size. This pattern is available in sizes ranging from XS to XL and can be purchased here!
Sexy Valentine's Day Dress
Stumped on what to wear on your next romantic night out with your spouse? Here's an appealing dress pattern with a heart-shaped neckline to try! It's a backless design with spaghetti straps that cross over your back.
Elegant Sheath Dress
Imagine wearing this to your next corporate meeting or event! This slim-fitting sheath dress is bound to leave people stunned. It's got a boat neckline and a concealed zip, making it look sleek and polished.
The Sweetbay Dress
This puffed 3/4 sleeve wrap dress is a dashing garment to add to your closet. You'll look dressed to the nines for your next business meeting! Make sure to get a snap or hook and eye closure for the front panel of the dress.
Sundress Sewing Pattern
This one-of-a-kind sundress would easily complement your floppy hat and flashy Ray-Bans on a hot summer day! Just check out its asymmetrical shoulder straps and cocoon-shaped skirt. This pattern comes in S, M, L, and XL.
Click here to find the original site for the pattern!
Pleated Summer Dress
Bask in the sun's rays with this darling pleated dress from Peppermint Magazine! This boxy-style dress features hidden buttons and in-seam pockets! You'll be sewing bust seams and pleats into the skirt too. This pattern comes in ten different sizes!
Fiore Midi Dress Tutorial
This charming midi dress comes with puffed cap sleeves and a high slit design on one side of the skirt, adding to its feminine flair. It even has a subtle open back below its button closures. Pair this with a simple pair of light heels and minimalistic accessories, and you're ready for your next dinner date!
Buy this pattern here! It comes in sizes ranging between 0-18.
Reformation Inspired Summer Dress
Here's a reformation-inspired summer dress from Eva Lova! For this sleeveless summer dress, you'll be drafting your pattern from scratch, so don't worry about its size. The bodice also has a shirred back to allow for more elasticity.
How To Make An Easy Peasant Dress (Any Size)
This tutorial offers an A-line peasant dress that's perfect for casual outdoor walks. You'll need an elastic band to make the ruffled collar and sleeves. You could adapt this pattern tutorial for any body type and size!
Easy Shift Dress Pattern
Make yourself this simple yet easygoing shift dress before summer ends! It's a dress of comfort and versatility. Just slip it on, and you're ready for work or a quick grocery shop!
DIY Peasant Boho Tunic Dress
Check out this Maisey dress pattern tutorial from Fashion Wanderer. This boho-style dress features long, billowy puffed sleeves and a three-tiered ruffled skirt. This tunic dress boasts a relaxed and flowy fit that comes in sizes S, M, and L.
You can buy this pattern here!
DIY Button Down Midi Dress
Here's a sewing tutorial for a vintage-style midi dress! Reminiscent of the 80s, this ladylike button-down has two front pockets for easy storage. You'll need to draft this pattern on your own too, but that gives all the more fitting and size options! You could choose between a loose and comfy or slimming fit with this dress!
The Day Date Dress
This adorable fit and flare dress is perfect for a delightful date! It's got a preppy peter pan collar and a pair of pockets as well. For this pattern, it's best to use fabric that stretches like knitted or stretch cotton fabrics! And keep in mind that you'll need some interfacing to structure the collar and cuffs of the sleeves.
Easy Summer Tunic
In love with the boho chic aesthetic? This wonderful tutorial from Mayra might pique your interest! Lined with lace at the hem of the skirt, this knee-length tunic is airy and super comfortable! You'll need an elastic for the neckline and sleeves. This pattern includes sizes from 8-20.
The Everyday Dress
This everyday dress is something relaxed and easy to slip on when you're in a hurry. It's even got pockets! Note that this pattern is available in L size for women and tailored for knit fabrics.
How To Make A Shirred Maxi Dress
Don't you adore a sleeveless maxi dress for a flaming hot summer? The shirring on the bodice makes it a perfect fit for a bust of any size! You could opt between a long maxi dress or a frisky knee-length dress with this dress pattern. Sizes for this pattern include S, M and L.
Chanel Little Black Dress
An elegant tweed dress that draws inspiration from the iconic Chanel tweed suit. The fitted bodice is constructed with a few well-placed darts to accentuate your curves in the most flattering way. This sewing pattern comes in sizes 4-24.