DIY Chiffon Wrap Dress

Chiffon comes in a variety of colors.

There are many styles of wrap dresses and they are perfect for formal and casual occasions, though they may be expensive when purchased at retailers. Those who enjoy sewing may find it preferable to make their own wrap dresses out of lightweight chiffon materials. These materials create fluid, breezy looks that can be worn almost anywhere. Sewing your own chiffon wrap dress may save money and will increase your chance of having a dress that fits you exactly right.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Pattern
• Chiffon material
• Interfacing fabric
• Thread
• Scissors
• Pins
• Sewing machine
• Steamer

Instructions

1. Take your measurements. With measuring tape, record the distance around your waist, your hips, and your bust. Also record your height. Select a wrap dress pattern that you like and check the back of the package for sizing. Choose a package with sizing that most closely matches the measurements you recorded. If you cannot find an exact match, choose one size higher instead of one size lower; it is easier to take in dresses than it is to let them out.

2. Check the back of the pattern for the amount of fabric needed for your dress size. Of course, you will choose chiffon fabric and any color that you want. Also, choose cotton thread that is lightweight and that closely matches the color of the chiffon material you chose.

3. Also, choose an interfacing fabric if your pattern requires it. The interfacing will go inside of the chiffon to make it harder to see through the dress. Organza may be a good choice.

4. Open your pattern package and unfold the pattern pieces. Spread out the interface material and the chiffon material. Clip out the pattern pieces according to the instructions on the pieces. Pin the pattern pieces to the materials using very fine pins; the fine pins will prevent the delicate chiffon material from ripping or tearing.

5. Cut the fabrics, following the pattern piece instructions. Stitch the front and back portions of the dress together, using sharp needles and French seams. Avoid back stitching, as this may ruin the chiffon. Instead, use a hand knot to tie up the stitching. Sew on the sleeves, if your pattern calls for sleeves. Hem the bottom of the dress, again using French seams and a thin, sharp needle.

6. Attach the wrap straps to the dress, following the pattern instructions. Try on the dress, and adjust it as necessary. Wrap the strap around the dress and steam the chiffon if necessary so that it falls nicely.

References

• Threads: Fluid Fabric Challenge Chiffon Tutorial
• Sew Neau: How to Make French Seams