This photoshoot was a last-minute decision. I was returning home on the Amtrak when my photographer contacted me, asking if I could quickly create a dress for a lavender-themed shoot. I am not typically drawn to lavender; I often think it smells like nothing at all or like soap! Sorry, lavender! I don’t have a favorite flower, as I appreciate them all; each one is exquisite in its own way. Initially, I was a bit hesitant about the overall concept, but after developing a concrete plan for the desired outcome, I felt prepared for the last-minute challenge. I want to point out that I do not particularly like the color purple; this will be the first purple item in my closet—can you believe that? However, since it is part of my color palette that complements my skin tone, I am trying to embrace wearing it more. This was a perfect opportunity to do so by sewing this beautiful sundress with matching accessories. I hope you enjoy these photos! It took a lot of effort—literally! It was incredibly hot the day we went; we experienced a heat wave in Philadelphia, and we were all drenched by the time we finished for the day. Fun times!

Butterick DRESS B4278

Butterick DRESS B4278

Butterick DRESS B4278

Butterick DRESS B4278

Butterick DRESS B4278

Butterick DRESS B4278

Butterick DRESS B4278

Butterick DRESS B4278

How To Make A Fabric Belt?

Enjoy this free fabric belt sewing pattern. This comprehensive design guided me from start to finish in creating my fabric belt.

FREE Fabric Belt Sewing Pattern

Fabric Belt Sewing Pattern - Sew Along Beginner Friendly Pattern

Loose fitting dress three inches below knee and evening length has neckline flounce, elasticated waistband, side seam pockets and full length sleeves gathered at cap and into buttoned cuffs with continuous lap opening or sleeveless.

Top Butterick Dress Patterns For Summer

B7040

Close fitting, sleeveless wrap dress pattern has sash that ties around the waist, bra shelf, and narrow hem.

B7035

Vintage Butterick 1960's Fitted sheath dress sewing pattern with bateau neckline and scooped back has back zipper and knee length slim skirt lightly gathered at waistline seam and accented with piping. Lined boxy jacket has three quarter length dolman sleeve and stand collar. Gathered caplet has tie ends with bow at front neckline. Ruffled overskirt cut of sheer fabric ties on with waistband extending into ties.

B7019

Vintage Butterick 1950's dress, neckline is enhanced by an interesting tab closing. Sleeves are cut-in-one with bodice. Button closing extends into the wide inverted center pleat of the skirt.

B6993

Loose-fitting dresses have stand-up collar, front yoke with bands, tiered hem, and side seam pockets. View A has purchased bias armhole facings. View B has short set-in sleeves with ruffle and rick rack trim.

B4278

What Is The Difference Between Ruffles & Flounces?

Ruffles – Always Gathered At The Seam

• Cut from a rectangular piece of fabric

• Fullness is created by gathering or pleating the fabric

• Fullness is consistent throughout the length of the ruffle

Flounces – Always Flat At The Seam

• Cut in a circular or spiral shape

• Fullness is concentrated to the bottom edge

• Can be attached without gathers or pleats

• Used to add volume and movement in garments

How To Make A Flounce?

I was fortunate to have the flounce pattern piece included with my dress pattern. While most patterns include a flounce piece, if yours does not, you can easily learn to sew flounces using the two YouTube tutorials provided. Both videos detail the process of measuring the neckline, creating the circle, cutting the flounce, and attaching it to your garment of choice.

Video #1 Sew Anastasia "A Super Easy Way To Add Flounce To Anything"

Video #2 Remi's Fashion "How To Draft and Cut A Flounce"

There you have it—a completed review of the only purple sundress I own. This loose-fitting sundress, pattern B4278, is perfect for every occasion during the summertime. I truly enjoyed sewing this dress and creating matching accessories.The fabric belt really elevated my outfit. Although I am not particularly fond of elasticated waistbands, they are easy to sew and commonly found in many of the Big 4 patterns. Therefore, the belt was the perfect way to conceal the elastic while providing the cinched waist look that I desire in most garments. Understanding the options available to enhanceyour garments is crucial when designing clothes; little details can transform a plain A-line skirt into something more visually appealing, giving your garment a fresh revamp. Since it is sundress season, I would love to hear what patterns you are considering sewing for SS25. Please leave your thoughts in the comments below!

Comment on Bluesky