The New Haven Dress

This post is part of a month long series called 'Pattern Makeover Month.' I took a simple pattern (The Sweet Dress by Leila and Ben) and 'made-it-over' into many different styles. For more information, go here.

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We are going to be chopping your pattern again, so print yourself an additional copy.

Measure the bottom hem line of the the size you are making. Divide that number by three. For the 5T, the hemline measures approximately 20 inches. Divided by three, this is just under 7. Add a seam allowance and you are right at 7 inches.

Cut your pattern 7 inches from the outside seam line.

(Cut along red line.)


Cut two of these pieces from each of your printed fabrics. For the solid fabric, place the spliced pattern piece on the edge of the fold of fabric. Cut a half inch from the pattern line for a seam allowance. You will need two of these pieces.

Cut one sleeve piece from each of your printed fabrics.

Sew the pieces together, one print, solid and then your other print. Topstitch the seams.

Now finish the dress as directed.

Make it cutesy or spunky!

(Top two pictures by Brooke Reeves Photography)