TRENDING: SWEATER DRESSES
We’ve spotted that maxi knit dresses are trending at the moment and it got us excited about all the sweater dress sewing patterns there are out there. We’ve been inspired by this article on Stylist to hunt for indie sewing patterns to recreate this look and have included some midi, maxi and knee-length options to suit all tastes. Knit dresses deliver style and comfort in equal measures which makes them all the more appealing to us.
We’ve rounded up ten lovely indie patterns that all have the chic yet cosy factor. It was actually so hard to create this shortlist, so if you are feeling inspired to add a knit dress to your wardrobe but haven’t fallen for any of the styles we’ve picked, you can browse all the knit dress sewing patterns on our shop!
The Nikko Top and Dress from True Bias:
Nikko is a wonderful pattern to add to your indie sewing pattern collection. It includes four views which all have a simple and stylish mock turtleneck and a choice of long fitted sleeves or sleeveless for the warmer months. The long dress is spot on for this trend and its fitted silhouette means it’s perfect for layering on top of. Plus, you can’t go wrong with a True Bias pattern… they are popular for a reason!
Sizing: UK 8 – 20 or UK 16 – 32
Pattern Format: Paper or PDF
The Iliana Dress from Vikisews:
The Iliana Dress is the new kid on the block as it has just launched on the shop and it’s a dead ringer for one of the styles included in the Stylist article! This close-fitting sheath dress features a one-piece long raglan sleeve with a shoulder dart. The deep V-neckline is finished with a raw-edged binding and the midi hemline will work well with heels, boots, trainers and more! It’s a cool style that could easily be dressed up or down.
Sizing: UK 6-20 in 4 height groups
Pattern Format: PDF with optional copyshop printing
The Alexa Dress from Fibre Mood:
The Alexa Dress is a winter staple that I would quite like in my wardrobe right now! It perfectly combines casual cool with comfort and is ideal for layering underneath if you are someone who needs all the extra layers! It has long raglan sleeves, a standing collar and you can choose from a mini or maxi length depending on your preference. One of the best things about Alexa is it’s made for stretch fabrics of every kind – think ribbed, viscose, velvet or even a heavier knitted jacquard.
Sizing: UK 6 – 26/28
Pattern Format: PDF with optional copyshop printing
The Iceberg Maxi Dress from Alice & Co Patterns:
The Iceberg Dress is striking and comfortable at the same time! It will be an extremely quick sew, perfect if you are after a little palette cleanser sewing project after sewing something more tricky like a coat. The fit is snug at the bust and hips with a bit of ease at the waist and the hemline hits above ankle length but you could chop to mid-calf, knee or mini as desired. I would throw on a chunky cardigan or jumper and boots to feel wonderfully warm!
Sizing: UK 6 – 22
Pattern Format: PDF with optional copyshop printing
The Southbank Sweater from Nina Lee:
You may have heard mention of the Southbank sweater by sewists at this time of year as it is a firm favourite of many makers. This cosy yet stylish pattern will become a winter wardrobe workhorse, you won’t want to wear anything else once you’ve tried it! Southbank has a slightly oversized fit, funnel neck and drop-shoulders, and is unbelievably quick and easy to sew! It would be a great pattern to try out knits for the first time if you are yet to dip your toe.
Sizing: UK 6 – 20 OR UK 16 – 28
Pattern Format: Paper (6-20) or PDF
The Kielo Wrap Dress and Jumpsuit from Named:
If you haven’t been introduced to the Kielo Wrap Dress yet, you’re in for a treat! Sitting in our top 10 most popular patterns of the year, Kielo is an interesting take on a knit fabric dress. The dress or jumpsuit features a stunning tie at the front that is also pretty functional as it cinches in at the waist, but as it’s made from stretchy fabric it’s oh so comfy. There are loads of makes on Instagram under the hashtag #KieloWrapDress if you want to see what other lovely sewists have done with this pattern.
Sizing: UK 4/6 – 28
Pattern Format: Paper or PDF
The Daniella Dress from Fibre Mood:
The Daniella Dress has it all! With its slight A-line shape, turtleneck and puffed sleeves, it’s packed with delightful details that are still simple to sew! You’re destined to want more than just one of this fantastic dress. If you prefer loose, floaty sleeves, you can just leave off the wrist trim! The khaki rib jersey fabric the second sample is made from has me scouring the web so I can copy this look!
Sizing: UK 6 – 26/28
Pattern Format: PDF with optional copyshop printing
The Jackie Dress from Victory Patterns:
If you prefer an elevated knit dress that exudes a little bit of glamour, the Jackie Dress could be the one! It’s an elegant, easy to wear, super comfortable knit dress that slips perfectly from day into night. It features a built-up neckline and shapely seams that are fitted at the waist into a full, flowing skirt. It would be great for anyone who loves sewing knits but wants to try something a little more complex.
Sizing: UK 6 – 18
Pattern Format: PDF with optional copyshop printing
The Memphis Dress from The Sewing Workshop:
We always like to include some pattern gems you may not have seen before in our lists and the Memphis Dress is well worth a closer look. It is a relaxed-fit dress with an asymmetric side flare, deep bottom band, back yoke with centre back seam, long tapered sleeves and narrow hems. It reminds me of the cool All Saints dresses that have interesting shapes in subtle colours. Do check out the shop page to see all the samples as they all give different looks!
Sizing: UK 6 – 18/20
Pattern Format: PDF with optional copyshop printing
The Alex Dress and Sweater from Lenaline Patterns:
The Alex Dress is the ultimate chuck on garment that looks as good with winter boots as it does snuggly slippers! It features very comfortable wide-cut, dropped shoulders and all-important side seam pockets. It’s easy to make, wear and style. You can sew it in sweatshirt, fleece or even neoprene fabrics. It’s hard not to try to copy the sample and styling exactly, it’s a very cool combination!
Sizing: UK 8 – 16/18
Pattern Format: PDF with optional copyshop printing
