Neoprene is a fabric fave for summer, often being made into swimwear and crop tops, but it’s potential for the autumn season is positively endless. It’s structure and volume makes it perfect for unconventional silhouettes like statement shoulders and super full midi skirts. Sometimes it’s difficult to work some of these design aspects into an everyday look, but The Vanda Dress brings the best of both worlds. With a structured skirt and flared sleeves, this adorable dress is the perfect mix of high fashion and casual chicness. Make it with another unconventional dress fabric such as denim or twill for a more exaggerated silhouette, or stay cute and comfy with neoprene!
Fabrics & materials used:
- 4 yards 1.5mm Coral Solid Stretch Neoprene
- 1/2 yard White Floral Re-Embroidered Stretch Crochet Lace
- 24″ Invisible Zipper – 341 Bright Salmon
- MDF070 – The Vanda Dress Sewing Pattern (free download below!)
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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.
Start by marking and sewing each of the darts on your pattern pieces. There should be two on the front bodice, two along the back bodice, and four total around the skirt. Once your front bodice darts are sewn, you can attach your two pieces to either side of your center front contrast panel. For this one, I layered lace over a panel of the coral neoprene, as you can see below.
Next, add your side front and side back bodice panels, like you see below. Stitch your under sleeve panel along the curve of the armscye created by your side panels, and then sew along the two sleeve seams. Attach your front and back bodice panels along the shoulder seam, and you bodice is mostly complete! Set aside to get started on your skirt.
You should already have your darts sewn into your skirt panels, so all that’s left to do is sew the two back panels to the front along the side seams. Attach your bodice to the skirt at the waist, lining up your darts and side seams. Starting about 1/2″ from the top of your neckline, insert an invisible zipper along the center back of your dress.
After the zipper has been inserted, sew down the remainder of the center back of your skirt and hem the bottom.
Finish off your sleeves and neckline with a hand-stitched rolled hem, and you’re good to go! I’d love to see this silhouette made with another fabric. Let me know what you’ll be using in the comments below!
