Difficulty: Intermediate

Sizes: XS – 2XL (approx. UK 4/6 – 24/26 based on our size chart)

Please always check the pattern size chart and finished garment measurements.

Description

This pattern recreates the turn-of-the-century Day Dress, originally worn as a comfortable house dress before corsets were fastened. Featuring a closely fitted bodice, the design is shaped with a buttoned front lining, a princess-seamed back, and pleats at the centre front and back, secured with waist ties. A square collar and rounded yokes with optional ruffles add to the historical charm. The full sleeves are gathered at the shoulder and finished with buttoned cuffs, while the skirt is fitted over the hips and flows into a wide ankle-length flounce.

For versatility, the pattern can also be made at street length for a contemporary look or as a blouse. Suitable for both day and evening wear, it works beautifully in challis, crisp silk, and traditional cotton calico.

Recommended Fabric

lightweight cotton and blends, silk, lightweight wools, and rayon. Historically, originals were made in cotton calico, percale, cashmere, sateen, and challis, making these excellent fabric choices for an authentic look.

Fabric Requirements

Reduce yardage by 3/4 yd (0.7 m) if omitting ruffle and yoke.

Blouse: 45" (115 cm) wide fabric: 3 1/4 - 4 1/4 yd (3 - 3.9 m) // 60" (150 cm) wide fabric: 2 5/8 - 3 1/4 yd (2.4 - 3 m).

Traditional dress: 45" (115 cm) wide fabric: 5 7/8 - 7 3/8 yd (5.4 - 6.7 m) // 60" (150 cm) wide fabric: 5 - 6 yd (4.6 - 5.5 m).

Contemporary dress: 45" (115 cm) wide fabric: 4 1/4 - 6 yd (3.9 - 5.5 m) // 60" (150 cm) wide fabric: 3 3/4 - 4 1/2 yd (3.4 - 4.2 m).

Notions

• Six 1/2"-5/8" (13-19 mm) buttons
• Snaps (optional)
• 1/4 yd (25 cm) of lightweight non-woven interfacing (optional)