EASY PARTY DRESS SEWING PATTERNS

The festive season is approaching, which means staying out past 9 pm wearing something special. Whether you have a work do, night at the theatre or are planning to go out-out, it's always nice to have a party dress on standby.

My ambition usually means that the dream dress stays in my head, rather than being realised due to time restraints. With that in mind, I've scoured the shop for easy party dress sewing patterns that hit the brief, but are approachable to sew.

All the sewing patterns selected are aimed at confident beginners and beyond.

Veronica Tucker Cordelia Dress and Blouse

This elegant dress has a clever detail that looks lovely, but adds practicality to the design. The corded ruching waist detail, which defines the waist without being figure-hugging, makes it the perfect choice for sit-down dinners and nights at the theatre, where comfort is key. The pattern is sleeveless, but you can add sleeves using the Audrey, Hera and Freya pattern sleeves if you own them, or you can grab all three with this sleeve pattern pack. 

Sizing: 8 – 28 (approx. UK 6/8 – 26/28), designed for a 5'9" (175 cm) height and a C cup bust.

Atelier Jupe Jamie Dress

Deceptively simple to sew thanks to the seams at the centre front and back, which makes sewing the V-neck just a bit easier, Jamie is a dream dress. Another clever feature is the casings with elastic on the inside give Jamie a nicely fitted waist. Or you can sew the casings on the outside instead and pull a tie belt through. This dress looks stunning in a plain fabric to highlight the details, but is just as beautiful in a print!

Sizing: EU 34 – 52 (approx. UK 8/10 – 24/26)

Syd Graham Syd Tie Dress and Top

This versatile pattern is a great buy as the choice of fabric can transform it from a breezy summer dress to a pretty party dress. It features a trendy tie-front closure, with a choice of 3/4-length puffy sleeves or sleeve-free. Make it your LBD, or search for something with a hit of sparkle to tick the party season box.

Sizing: 0 – 34 (approx. UK 6 – 36), drafted for an individual who is 5'7" (170 cm).

Notches Moriko Top and Dress

Do you love patterns that give you loads of options to play with? Well, the Moriko pattern has 36 ways to sew it, which is sure to keep you busy. Designed for knit fabrics, you have options to sew a basic round-neck fitted T-shirt or tank, to a striking one-sleeve dress with side gathers. The diagonal panelling across the front and back adds a playful edge, perfect for combining colours or experimenting with see-through fabrics. With various lengths and optional high slits for the dress, Moriko easily transitions from casual daytime looks to glamorous evening styles.

Sizing: XS - 6XL / EU 34 – 62 (approx. UK 6 – 34/36)

Sew Over It Hettie Dress

Do you have a spot in your pattern collection for a dress that can double up as a party pattern and an everyday dress? Hettie can be sewn in a wow fabric to make a standout party dress, or in something more everyday to make the 9-5 a little more fancy. It's easy to sew, pulls over the head and has an easy-fitting trapeze shape. Ties are sewn into the side seams under the bust, allowing you to cinch the dress in at the back for a more defined shape. It's a great pattern that could be so useful to have in your stash.

Sizing: UK 6 – 20 and UK 18 – 30 (approx. UK 6 – 20 and UK 20 – 32)

Oh Me Oh My Sewing Sophie Dress and Top

Ok, this wouldn't be such an easy make, but how lovely is this pretty dress with sheer overlay?! If you've ever had your eye on a fancy organza, this pattern can make that fabric dream come true. It will be much simpler to sew in a woven fabric, such as cotton lawn or linen, and the elastic shoulders help with the bodice fitting. Choose between four fun sleeve options and an above-the-knee skirt or ruffled midi skirt.

Sizing: 00 – 26 (approx. UK 6/8 – 30/32)

If you have someone little to sew for, a matching children's Sophie pattern is available here.

Fibre Mood Mirri Dress

Found a wow fabric that you want to showcase? A simple design is the way to go, and this simple shift is perfect for making your standout fabric shine. This A-line design with short sleeves and topstitched in-seam pockets is beautifully understated and a true staple for your capsule wardrobe. Use that wow fabric for party season, and sew it up in denim for an all-season staple. What a useful pattern!

Sizing: XS – XXXL (approx. UK 6 – 28/30)

Madswick Delft Dress

If you are after maximum impact, this feminine design will do the trick. You certainly cannot buy anything this lovely in the shops. This fun and unique dress has a bias-bound, rounded square neckline, short puff sleeves, a curved waistline, unique scalloped gathered skirt panels, and a wide hem. It has generous ease, perfect for twirling. The skirt length falls below the knee but can be easily adjusted to suit your preference. 

Sizing: 1 – 15 (approx. UK 6/8 – 34), drafted for a B/C cup and 5'6" (1.68 m) height.

Named Kielo Wrap Dress and Jumpsuit

You cannot go wrong with an all-time bestseller, and Kielo is it. This simple to sew dress has a fantastic silhouette, cinching you in at the waist. Choose this design, and you'll find two large front and back pieces and long ties that make up this pattern. Simply wrap the ties around you and you’re done. Its simple construction and dramatic shape, and the fact that it is extremely comfortable to wear, make it a firm favourite. Oh, and you get a jumpsuit version too!

Sizing: EU 32 – 56 (approx. UK 4/6 – 28), drafted for a 172 cm (5'8") tall person.

Jennifer Lauren Handmade Isla Wrap Dress

Where are the sewists who favour party dresses with vintage vibes? I saved the final spot for you! The perfect mix of 1950s house dress and modern-day wrap dress, Isla features waistline darts for bodice shaping, grown-on sleeves, and a wide, gently rounded neckline (buttoned at the top back neckline). This dress uniquely wraps in the back, and waist ties close the dress, cinching it in as much as you please. Pick a fabric with party vibes, and you have yourself a dress that will win you many compliments!

Sizing: UK 6 – 24 with A – D cups or UK 16 – 34 with C – F cups.

I hope that's inspired you ahead of party season. Are you ready to be out past 9 pm? I'm not sure I am, but maybe sewing something that deserves a late night will change my mind!