Sewing Circle: Amazing sequin evening dress pattern
Q: I fell in love with this dress when I saw it on Pinterest several weeks ago. I would love to make this and was wondering if you have ever come across a pattern or two that would help complete this amazing Rachel Gilbert sequin dress.
A: That is an amazing dress! The first thing I notice is the shape of the bodice, and I know I’ve seen patterns like it before. It has a rounded midriff panel and what looks like a slight crossover v-neck made with right and left sides. The waist seems to hit just barely above the natural waist—very flattering, and you can get the right proportions with ANY pattern with a midriff panel. You’ll just cut it to the right size for your body and this style. So some of the patterns I’ve seen have wider or narrower panels, some that look like waistbands—don’t worry about that. Very easy to change when you cut.
Here are some patterns that look similar:
New Look 6557. I learned how to sew dresses on this pattern! Super easy. You could use the red/white pattered dress style but give it a slightly higher waistline.
New Look 6774. There are a lot of pieces in there, but the simple crossover shown in peach second from the left would do.
McCall’s M6557. Again, extend the midriff panel to the natural waist.
Same deal with Simplicity 2549.
Simplicity 2587. You could use either the strappy or the wide bodice pieces, although the bust gathers might be a little tricky on a truly sequined fabric. Also, note that this pattern is super low-cut! You might want to cut the bodice left and right a little wider and make them cross over. Also, I think this pattern might be out of print...
Butterick B4915. Another one of my old faves and a great basic pattern! I think it’s also out of print but you could maybe find it for sale online.
As for the rest of the dress… Looks like the skirt is made of crinkled silk chiffon--just lovely! But if your budget doesn't allow, I'd use a poly crinkle chiffon and put it over a nice, not too thin, rayon or nylon lining.
Oh, and the pattern for the skirt? You don’t need one. Measure from your waist (or wherever the bodice ends) to the floor, or wherever you want the skirt to stop. Add ½” at the top for the seam allowance, and just over an inch at the bottom for a small hem. I would cut two panels, I think? If you have 45” wide fabric, you’ll have 90” around minus seam allowances. I would cut the same of the lining, but about 1” shorter.
I think you can totally pull this DIY off!
Readers--which patterns get your vote? Any ideas on where to find that great sequin fabric? When I made this sequin dress I recycled it from a cheap sequin top, and I have seen sequined stuff in sponsor Sew What's New's store. But I'd love to hear any other sources you may know of!