TOP 10 INDIE SUNDRESS SEWING PATTERNS
Who’s ready for summer? Not me! I always find myself rummaging through my clothes when the temperatures soar, confused that I don’t have what I need to battle the heat…noooooo! So this year I identified what is missing from my handmade summer wardrobe and began my search for the perfect sundress pattern. As I’ve already done the searching, I thought I’d share my top 10 sundress indie sewing patterns from the Fold Line shop. There is something for everyone, from beginners to ruffle lovers to minimalists. Now, I’d better get on and choose which one to sew before the next heatwave hits!
If you want to swish, swish, swish all summer long, the Marcel Dress and Tank Top by Chalk and Notch is the sewing project for you! Marcel is fitted through the high bust and loose through the bust, waist and hips. You can make it three ways: as a s midi-length dress, a mini-length dress or a tank top that ends at the high hip. The interesting gathered panels of the dress make it perfect for playing with colour blocking or stripes.
Sizing: UK 8 – 30 with A/B and C/D bust cup options
Pattern format: Paper and PDF
The Hallon Dress from Paradise Patterns has been a real hit with the sewers of Instagram. This swingy dress is just perfect for summer (the designer is based in Hawaii so knows a thing or two about dressing for sunny weather!)! You get two views with this pattern, the first has a very relaxed fit, ruffled hem and a back that sits low and loose. The second has a straighter fit and sits closer to your back, with modern side seam slits.
Sizing: UK 6/8 – 32 with B and D cup options
Pattern format: PDF
The Sew House Seven Sauvie Sundress has been one of our most popular patterns since its launch! When you look at the many, many ways you can make it, you’ll see why! The low front and back V-necklines and narrow straps were designed to cover a bra, and optional bra keeper instructions are included to hide and secure your bra straps within the garment for that extra couture detail. With two pocket options, three hem finishes, two waist finishes and two hem lengths, you can mix and match any of the versions’ features.
Sizing: UK 6 – 22 and UK 20 – 36/38
Pattern format: PDF
The Tilly and the Buttons Skye Sundress is a throw-it-on dress for those sticky, hot summer days when you don’t know what else to wear. It also looks lovely when layered over a t-shirt! The easy-fitting empire waist bodice is gently shaped with pleats under the bust and has a neat bias binding finish on the inside for a neat finish. The slightly square scoop neckline (which gives us Bridgerton vibes btw) is designed to cover a bra, with optional bra strap stays for added security. You have three hemlines and two strap styles to choose from, so you won’t stop at making one!
Sizing: UK 6 – 34
Pattern format: Paper and PDF
If you generally opt for a slightly more fitted bodice, this design from the Avid Seamstress might be to your liking! The Sun Dress features a fitted bodice with a square neckline, wide straps and a button front. A pleated skirt with pockets creates a lovely silhouette as well as comfort and practicality for your day-to-day activities with a wide hem that finishes the look.
Sizing: UK 6 – 22
Pattern format: Paper and PDF
If you love a pattern that delivers multiple options, Christine Haynes Verano Tank Top and Dress is it! You get four views with this pattern, all with the option of either a solid or button front, for a total of eight different variations. All views are sleeveless and have bust darts and a scoop front. This floaty design will help you keep cool in the heat in me made style!
Sizing: UK 6 – 30
Pattern format: PDF
Light and airy just about sums up the next dress on our list! The Tammy Handmade Raman Dress is a floaty summer dress with long tie straps, a square neckline and a three-tiered skirt with stylish exposed ruffle detail. This slip-on design has no tricky fastenings and so is perfect for beginners! The bodice is semi-fitted and lined, with the dress having a looser fit on the waist and hips.
Sizing: UK 6 – 24
Pattern format: PDF
Really love a dress with a romantic edge? This delightful dress is packed with thoughtful details that will be a pleasure to sew and wear. The Untitled Thoughts Olive Dress features two skirt options and two open back options (strapless bra friendly and a dramatically low back). It has in-seam pockets and an optional waist tie and belt loops.
Sizing: UK 6 – 30/32 with B and DD bust cup options
Pattern format: PDF
The Grace Dress by Marsha Style is a vintage-inspired sundress in two versions, the components of which can be mixed and matched as you please. It is everything you want from a floaty sundress. Great news for those who often make bust adjustments, Grace includes two cup size options: A-C and D-F. The pattern now includes print-at-home pattern pieces for a square neck hack (the yellow dress in the image). You will find yourself with a collection of this sweet sundress!
Sizing: UK 6 – 34 with A-C and D-F bust cups.
Format: PDF
Papercut Patterns Celestia Dress is a heavenly wardrobe staple featuring three tiers of voluminous fabric, and pockets. There are two bodice variations: one with a square neckline, and the other straight across with a drawstring that ties in a bow at the back. Layer it up or wear it on its own, the Celestia Dress is an effortless throw-on that will leave you feeling chic and ready for anything.
Sizing: UK 4 – 20 or UK 18 – 36
Pattern format: Paper
