Introducing the Marianne Dress

I am so happy to announce the release of my newest pattern, the Marianne Dress! I love a cozy knit dress, and the Marianne Dress is exactly that. Designed with ease, the Marianne is a casual knit dress with a figure skimming silhouette.

Inspired by the classic Breton top of the French sailor, the Marianne is a modern take on that shape with a kimono sleeve and several custom options. The dress hits above the knee, has a comfortable round neckline, and easy to sew seaming.

Though I have been designing and working in knits for decades, this is my first pattern for stretch knits. The booklet includes instructions for both serger/overlock machines as well as conventional machines. You can absolutely sew this dress on a basic machine and with basic knit sewing knowledge!

View A is a simple front and back, with the kimono sleeves gently folding over the shoulder, and an optional Peter Pan collar sewn to the front of the neckline. The sleeve and skirt hems are finished with a simple fold and top stitch, and the neckline is finished with self-binding.

View B has the same shape and kimono sleeves, but this version features a 3/4-length sleeve sewn to the hem of the kimono sleeve, which ends in a cuff and 3-button decorative detail. There is an additional seam at the bust and across the back, which lands in line with the hem of the kimono sleeve, making color blocking options fun and endless. As with View A, the hem of the skirt is simply folded and top stitched and the neckline is finished with self-binding.

The Marianne Dress is meant to be loose and flowing through the body, not fitted and confining. The garment has loads of ease through the waist and hip, with only a few inches of ease through the bust, making it flattering and forgiving where it counts.

Because the Marianne Dress is not meant to be fitted, this garment is best suited for a knit that has some flow and drape to it. Best choices are cotton jersey knit, ponte knit, rayon knit, silk knit, double knit, french terry, wool knit, and ITY. But think beyond the basics!

There's no need to only stick to stripes, despite the sample photos, this can easily translate to a holiday party dress when made in a metallic stretch knit, or a fun floral print for a summery take on the shape!

I hope you love the new dress and I cannot wait to see all your versions!