Inspiration for your perfect dress pattern with a little help from ‘BBC Sewing Bee Champion’ Charlotte Newland!
Charlotte shares her top pattern picks for upcoming sewing retreat at Muncaster Castle.
MAKE! The Lakes ‘Make your Dream Dress’ Sewing Retreat gives you the opportunity to spend some quality time sewing the perfect dress for yourself.
But which pattern to choose?! There are so many out there!
Anything that has a separate bodice and skirt which uses woven fabric will be perfect!
Charlotte will teach you all about fitting the bodice to your measurements and how to adapt the pattern especially for you. You will then be able to make your dream dress over and over again!
Here are some recommendations from Charlotte to get you inspired:
Trillium Dress from Made by Rae
One of Charlotte’s all-time favourite dresses is the Trillium Dress (formerly known as Washi Dress) she made especially for the Sewing Bee Final when she was crowned champion! Find the pattern here.
Christine Haynes Sylvie Dress
This dress includes a flattering waistband, bust darts, gathered skirt and extremely useful patch pockets! Perfect for those new to dressmaking and looks great in Gingham. Find the pattern here.
The Avid Seamstress Day Dress
Perfect for all kinds of occasions this pretty dress is perfect for beginners to dressmaking. Find the pattern here.
By Hand London, Kim Dress
Beautifully feminine princess seamed dress with neckline and skirt variations. Get the pattern here.
Upton Dress by Cashmerette
A stunning dress that is tailored to your curves with a choice of flattering necklines, a lined bodice and hidden pockets. Perfect for all levels and can be found here.
Sureau Dress by Deer and Doe
Featuring a mock button front and sweet bust gathers this dress is so easy to wear. Comes with options for sleeves or sleeveless. Find Sureau here.
Prudence Dress by Colette Patterns
A sumptuous dress with romantic bodice details such as a mandarin collar, keyhole neckline and dolman sleeves. Perfect for lovely drapey fabrics. Find the pattern here.
Anything by Gertie!
We are big fans of International Sewing Starlet Gretchen Hirsch (Gertie), a passionate sewist who’s been sharing her love of vintage frocks for over 10 years. Her books are filled with the most perfect dresses. Find Gertie’s patterns and books here.
For information about uncoming retreats, click here!
