Summer is here and it’s time to make some glorious frocks! I’ve selected some of my top summer dress patterns, all with plenty of room in the waistline (making them ideal for celebratory meals). Whether you’re whipping up something to wear on Christmas day or sewing some fresh frocks for the new year, there’ll be something here for you.
The perfect summer throw-on. This is my new favourite dress – I’ve made two already! The inverted v-waistline and frill add some flair to this babydoll-style dress. The construction is relatively simple and the instructions are clear and detailed, making it a great beginner option. I recommend adding side-seam pockets (not included in the pattern).
A simple summer staple, this dress has four views – all joyful summer frocks. The tiered skirts are a great option for lounging in the sun (or dancing the night away) plus there is a sleeveless option for peak summer wear. This dress that can be casual or dressy depending on your fabric selection.
I fell in love with this dress the second I saw pins_and_tonic’s version in an orange print. This chick shirt dress is a great way to show off an interesting print. It’s the perfect combo of stylish and comfortable and suits a range of body types. If you’re keen to try it, check out my tips for perfect buttonholes to help achieve a professional finish. Sewing level: Intermediate
This dress is a showstopper, guaranteed to get compliments. It can be made in a lightweight cotton or viscose and (with a small change to your accessories) worn to a picnic or a wedding. The design features are unique – pin tucks create the bodice’s shape, fanning out to create a stunning flutter sleeve, and an open back with a delicate tie closure at the top.
I do have a couple of warnings for those brave enough to embark on this pintuck pleated masterpiece:
The pintuck pleats take a long time – be patient with yourself and use a Narrow Edge Foot for precision.
The instructions for this dress are quite vague – it’s not recommended for beginners.
As it is backless, bra options are limited, and the design of the dress would make a full bust adjustment difficult – if you’re large busted proceed with caution.
The challenges are certainly worth the reward (and the compliments). I urge you to choose a bright summer fabric and go for it!
This timeless dress would make a brilliant Christmas party or New Year’s Eve frock. The plunging neckline is spectacular, but if you are looking for something more modest it’s easy to sew it up for more coverage. This also makes a great formal maternity dress – one of my friends made it in red while pregnant and she looked incredible. Note: this dress was originally released as V9253.
A classic in the online sewing community, this gorgeous wrap dress is extremely flattering. The Hannah Dress features a gathered skirt and three sleeve options – short sleeves, tulip sleeves, and long puffy sleeves. It also comes in a child-sized version! You can find endless Hannah inspiration on Instagram by searching #bhlHannah.
This is the kind of dress you can wear on sweltering day and still feel cute. It’s a half-circle bias-cut dress with lots of volume. I made one in a very lightweight linen and twirled at every opportunity. Another very cute back – low-cut with a long tie (or elastic back in alternate view).
Sewing level: Beginner to intermediate (intermediate for v-neck)
Size guide: Upper bust 79–140cm / bust 79–145cm.
I hope these patterns give you inspiration and motivation to make some new frocks this summer!
We can’t wait to see what you create! Don’t forget to share them with us on Instagram, tagging @pfaffsewingaus and using the hashtags #pfaffsewingaustralia #pfaffsewing #perfectionstartshere or our Facebook page Pfaff Australia
Nicole McKenzie is a sewist and writer based in Adelaide, Australia. Nicole has been sewing her own garments for over a decade and especially loves to make fancy frocks.
Her proudest make so far is her stunning wedding dress, made from layers of silk and colourful floral embroidered tulle.
Nicole combines her passions by writing about sewing for Peppermint Magazine and PFAFF.
You can read Nicole's top tips on the PFAFF blog and see more of Nicole's creations on her Instagram @NikoletaSews
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