As I write this, it is HOT. Spring skipped us this year and we went from almost 0ºc to 27ºc in the space of a week. I’m wearing shorts and a tank top but I feel like a summer dress would be better. I also have special event to attend in June – another wedding – and I’m thinking a dress is in order, so if I can use the same pattern or both needs,
My search for the best summer dress patterns I could find paid off, and I am sharing some of them with you today.
These are paid sewing patterns rather than free dress sewing patterns. I see the value in spending some cash on a sewing pattern is that generally they come with better and more detailed instructions. This is more important for sewing beginners who are new to sewing their own clothes, whereas anyone with more experience can often wing the sewing process if they’ve made a dress or two before.
With all this in mind, let’s take a look at the summer dress patterns I’m excited by.
Coral Dress – Fiber Mood
A summer dress sewing pattern to lust after. This gorgeous pattern will make the perfect dress in lightweight and flowing fabrics.
There is gathering on this dress pattern, but it is contained to the front and back neckline which allows more volume to be incorporated into the pattern for a looser fit.
The shoulder straps of this dress will also hide bra straps nicely but the low back will make for a visible bra band across your back, unless you include the fun tie detail at the back which adds some wow factor and hides a bra band.
Fiona Sundress Pattern – Closet Core Patterns
The Fiona Sundress pattern is a favorite women’s dress pattern in the sewing community come the summer months and it’s easy to see why.
With a button up front, wide straps, splits at the sides, a square neckline and princess seams for that more fitted look, it easily works as a casual day dress perfect for summer vacations or just being at home in the sun.
I particularly like the pockets and the back detailing on this pattern.
I’ve got a few patterns from this indie pattern company – formerly known as Closet Case Patterns – and really love their designs, the more inclusive sizing and the instructions they create too.
Giselle Dress – Style Arc
The first of two Style Arc sewing patterns to make this list, the Giselle Dress is one of the most perfect wrap dresses I’ve seen. But that’s because I am a sucker for a ruffle, and this one has ruffle detailing around the entire perimeter.
The pattern comes with a short or long sleeves option. My heart is loving the sleeveless version, which will be great for the sunny weather this year. Perhaps even the perfect wedding guest dress too I wonder?
Grace Dress – Sew Over It
A summer dress with a fitted bodice, this one can be made up in a lightweight cotton for those hot summer days or make it in a more luxurious fabric and you have a dress suitable for special occasions too!
I have a wedding to attend in June, so I am on the lookout for a summer dress pattern that can be versatile in the way the Grace Dress is.
Lawrence Dress – Helen’s Closet
Another summer dress with a tiered skirt, this sleeveless dress sewing pattern also has a V neck and the sizing is listed for two cup sizes: B and D. I like that a small shoulder ruffle detail can be added for some more oomph, but in general this dress would be suited for everyday wear through the spring and summer – if you like a tiered skirt.
Grab the Lawrence Dress from Helen’s Closet here!
Orchards Dress – Vivian Shao Chen
If a fitted bodice is not your vibe in the summer, then the Orchards Dress can be sewn up as a knee-length dress or a maxi dress version. It’s a dress pattern that has gathering and tiers – which not everyone is a fan of – but the bonus is that it is sleeveless and loose enough for hot days. And it has in-seam pockets, which seals the deal for me.
If sleeves are essential for you, there are ‘add on’ packs for this pattern too.
Summer Cover Up – Style Arc
What a gorgeous summer dress this is. I LOVE a caftan style dress as it allows for a loose fit and lets the air circulate more, so this is another one at the top of my list for summer dresses!
Though it is similar to the Charlie Kaftan pattern from Closet Core Patterns which I sewed up two years ago.
Transit Dress – Maison Fauve
Oh my. This is probably the most easy sew dress pattern I found, and it would be so quick to sew this one up. In terms of skill levels, this is great for a beginner.
My favorite detail might be the pleats from the front shoulders followed by the grown on short sleeves.
Imagine this one sewn up in a lightweight fluid fabric for summer days, and then something more structured for an evening dinner or wedding… it’s a pattern suitable for different occasions with the fabric choice being the changeable design element.
The only downside to this pattern is that I am at the very top of their size range, so if I gained any more weight, I’d have to start grading the pattern up. Sigh.
That’s eight gorgeous dress patterns for you. I already bought and printed the Fiona sundress sewing pattern, but I’m torn between the Giselle Dress and the Transit Dress as the second. Which do you think is a better option for a wedding guest dress? Would love to hear your thoughts in the comments!