220 Garden Party Dress - PDF

Women's Sizes XS-2XL

This is a PDF-only pattern.  This pattern includes several files: sewing instructions, copy shop versions (A0 and 36" wide), and a print-at-home version.  

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Although the fashions of the 1910-12 incorporated a new straight, slim silhouette as a departure from the Edwardian S-curve and full, swishing skirts, there seemed to be a reluctance to abandon the lovely lacy detailing of that earlier period.  This type of dress was sometimes referred to as a "Lingerie Dress" on account of the sheer, white delicacy of the fabric and trim with which it was made.

The bodice of our Garden Party Dress reflects the less constricting tailoring of the post-Edwardian era.  Soft gathers below a square yoke and at the waist provide a comfortable fit.  Two wide flanges emphasize the princess line.  These were typically made of lace or eyelet as in View B.

View A, our contemporary interpretation, has a self-bias bound jewel neckline, self-fabric flanges, and a gathered mid-calf length dirndl skirt.  View, B, the traditional version, has a lowered square neckline.  The ankle-length skirt is darted into the waistline for a very flattering, slimming fit;  purchased lace or eyelet on the flanges, cuffs, front yoke, and back add elegance and femininity.  Both views feature three-quarter length sleeves eased into wide below-the-elbow cuffs and a buttoned center back opening.  

The straight cut of the skirt makes this dress a natural for border prints and eyelet.

Suggested Fabrics:  Soft, sheer to lightweight fabrics such as cotton batiste, voile, lawn, gauze, or eyelet; rayon challis; silks; wool challis or blends.   

Sizing and Yardage Chart (pdf)

Note: Small correction on early version on STEP FIVE: SLEEVES AND FINISHING- Baste along seam line of three notched edges, instead of unnotched. 

Want to add a zipper instead of buttons to this dress?  Go here for how to prepare the dress for a zipper, and here for how to add an invisible zipper.