Music and fashion will forever go hand-in-hand. Let’s face it, everyone pulls inspiration from their favorite artists; and, if you’re a fan of ’80s music, like me, I’m sure Prince is likely towards the top of your list too! Between his flamboyant style and hit movie Purple Rain, he had all of us wanting to rock this regal color. Our Bellium Dress free sewing pattern is the perfect way to honor one of the most influential musical artists of all time! Fitted with a built-in bustier, you’ll feel like rockstar royalty – especially in Mood Fabrics’ luxurious purple stretch velour. With a 4-way stretch, it’s an ideal pick for dancing the night away; or, try using another stretch knit for a look, just as bold! How do you plan to rock your Bellium Dress?

Purchase Materials Used Below:

2.5 yards of Purple Stretch Velour
2 spools of 928 Hydrangea 100m Gutermann Thread
2 yards of Black Fabric Covered Boning
MDF146 – The Bellium Dress Sewing Pattern (free download below!)

Alternative Suggested Fabrics:

All seam allowances are 1/2″ unless otherwise stated. See chart below for sizing specifications. Note, this specific pattern is available up to a size 30.

Sewing The Bellium Dress is not as challenging as it may seem. The sewing is pretty straight forward. Here’s how to sew:

The front of the dress appears to be a wrap dress, but the edge is actually a faux piece that will be attached separately.

Cut the front dress on the fold. Once unfolded, place the pattern on the opposite side of the dress and cut the bottom faux pattern piece on the bottom. Make sure to cut with seam allowance.

Sew the bottom hem of the dress before attaching the faux wrap piece. Attach the wrap piece by sewing it directly to the finished hem along the same stitch line.

Gently press for a seamless finish.

Next, prepare the gathering at the side seams where indicated on the pattern. Use a basting stitch on each side and slightly pull the threads to achieve the desired gathering amount.

Before attaching the front to back, you need to sew in the bustier. Once you sew down the center seam, it will create a dart at the top of the bust. Stitch this dart closed.

Now attach each bustier to the top of your dress.

After attaching the bustier, use the seam allowance to create the casing for inserting the boning.

Tip: File the edge of your boning with a nail file for a smooth rounded tip. This will prevent the boning from piercing through.

Next, you can prepare your sleeves. Fold over the sleeve and sew along the side seam. Use a basting stitch and gather the sleeve opening.

Fold the cuff and stitch along the side seam. Pin the cuff to the sleeve opening and stitch. Fold over the cuff lengthwise and slip stitch the inside.

Now pin the front of the dress to the back and stitch at the side and shoulder seams.

Set in sleeves and stitch.

Pin your front and back facings at the shoulder seams and stitch in place. Attach your facings to the neckline and stitch. Use a blind stitch to tack down the facing on the inside.

That’s it, you’re done!