8 Beautiful Summer Dress Sewing Patterns
As someone who loves sewing dresses, I always look forward to summer—it’s the perfect time to wear handmade dresses.
Dresses are so versatile in the summer days. You can throw one on to run errands, wear it to the beach, enjoy ice cream with a friend, or dress it up for a date. A handmade summer dress is the perfect way to stay cool while looking and feeling beautiful.
In this post, I’m rounding up 8 of my favorite summer dress sewing patterns from indie companies I adore. You’ll find a mix of styles—from vintage-inspired silhouettes to modern staples, flowy maxis, and smocked details.
There’s something for every taste and skill level, so let’s dive in!
1. Madeline Dress by Sage & Lilac
Madeline is a vintage-inspired, square neck dress sewing pattern that’s romantic but super wearable. With a semi-fitted bodice and gathered skirt, it hugs your curves in all the right places without feeling restrictive.
Choose from puff sleeves (View A), a short gathered skirt (View B), or long sleeves and skirt (View C). The pattern comes with a step-by-step video tutorial to help guide you through.
I designed the Madeline Dress myself, so I might be a little biased—but I truly think it’s a perfect summer sewing project. I’ve already made five dresses in cotton and linen fabrics, and I still want to make more! You can see more photos of the Madeline dresses here.
Here are my makes of the Madeline dress.
2. Trillium Dress by Made by Rae
The Trillium Dress(previously known as Washi Dress) is a summer sewing staple, featuring a shirred back bodice for a flexible fit, a scoop neckline, and a gently pleated skirt.
This was one of the first dress sewing patterns I tried when I got into garment sewing many years ago. Definitely beginner-friendly and great in cotton or linen prints.
Here is my make of the Trillium dress. I chose the tunic length for top with a cute cotton fabric.
3. Eleonora Dress by Silversaga Patterns
Inspired by classic chemise dresses, the Eleonora Dress has an adjustable tie neckline, elastic waist, and roomy raglan sleeves with ruffle details.
It comes in three views so you can choose your favorite waist finish—elastic, shirring, or added shape under the bust. Perfect for cotton voile, double gauze, or any airy fabric.
I recently made one using cotton fabric with subtle woven details, and it turned out so soft and breezy.
4. Darling Ranges Dress by Megan Nielsen Patterns
The Darling Ranges Dress is a modern shirt dress with a flattering V-neckline, button front, and gathered skirt. It includes multiple views: View A has darts for shaping, while Views B and C are dartless and can be made as a blouse, tunic, or dress.
I’ve made several versions of this dress and even hacked it to change up the details. You can read my detailed pattern review here.
Here’s my makes of Darling Ranges in rayon fabric. I lengthened the skirt quite a bit for a midi length.
5. Aria Maxi Smock Dress on Etsy
If you love oversized fit and quick sew, the Aria Dress is for you! It features a loose-fitting bodice, gathered tiers, and puff sleeves that give it a dreamy, floaty shape. It’s oversized and incredibly comfortable—great for summer or maternity wear.
This pattern includes a helpful video sew-along!
6. Règlisse Dress by Deer and Doe Patterns
Retro and romantic, the Règlisse Dress has a flattering V-shaped neckline, elastic waistband, and gathered skirt—like a vintage sundress updated for today’s taste.
Choose from a button front or sweet neck bow (both views are adorable). It looks lovely in breezy fabrics like linen, rayon, or lightweight cotton.
7. Sauvie Sundress by Sew House Seven
The Sauvie Sundress is the definition of easy summer dressing. With delicate straps and a relaxed fit, it’s a breezy, throw-on-and-go style you’ll reach for all season.
You can layer it over a tee when it’s cooler or use lightweight fabric for a stylish beach cover-up.
8. Lucy Dress by Sewing with Solana
The Lucy Dress features a front tie, puffed ¾-length sleeves, and a gently flared A-line skirt. The bodice is double-lined for structure, and the overall silhouette is soft and airy—perfect for warm weather.
This pattern doesn’t include written instructions, but there’s a thorough step-by-step YouTube video tutorial to guide you. A great option if you’re a visual learner!
Which One Will You Sew First?
I hope you enjoy my selection of summer dress sewing patterns! Each of these summer dress sewing patterns brings something special to your handmade wardrobe.
I’d love to know which one caught your eye? Or do you have TNT summer dress patterns you’d like to share? Leave it in the comments 🙂
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