How to Make Bohemian Dress

For a simple take on bohemian style, create a maxi dress in minutes.

Boho summer style is popular for its ease and carefree chic. Creating a layered bohemian style can be overwhelming for beginning fashionistas, but working around a statement piece like a maxi dress is as easy as adding accessories. Bohemian dresses can be made at home from slinky stretch jersey, lightweight linens or breezy chiffon sheers. With basic sewing techniques and bolts of standard 45-inch wide fabrics, you can make the perfect piece to throw on for beach days or festival wear.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric
• Measuring tape
• Scissors
• Pins
• Sewing machine
• Elastic

Instructions

1. Roll out fabric to body length. Use the scissors to cut off the necessary amount, giving yourself an extra inch or two for seam allowances and hems.

2. Cut at the fold to create two long layers of fabric. Pin the fabric layers together, print or front side facing one another.

3. Fold the pinned fabric layers in half width wise. Cut a 15 degree angle through the layers of fabric, at the top folded edge of the stack to create the neck of the bohemian dress.

4. Unfold the fabric stack to reveal the neckline. Fold the edges of the neckline down 1/4 inch and pin each layer individually to create hem.

5. Measure eight inches from the top of the fabric stack downward. Fold the edges of the sleeve down 1/4 inch and pin each layer individually to create hem.

6. Pin along the edges of the dress sides. Using the sewing machine, sew a 1/4 inch seam along the edges of the dress. Remove pins.

7. Sew along the individual layers of the pinned neckline of the dress. Remove pins. Repeat for sleeves.

8. Match the final un-sewn edges, the shoulders and pin along the edges. Sew the edges together, then remove pins.

9. Measure about 15 inches from the shoulder of the dress downward. This measurement should mark just below the bust line. Pin elastic at this measurement to one side seam.

10. Sew the elastic across the midsection of the dress, pulling the elastic as you sew to create a scrunched effect.

11. Turn the dress right side out.

Tips & Warnings

• Add on fringed trims and earthy accessories for a totally bohemian look.

References

• You Tube: Pretty Loose Sleeve Maxi Dress