Commercial Patterns
If you want to sew a modest prom gown and
you look in the pattern books under eveningwear, you might be
disappointed in what you find. But look a little closer, and you'll find
that there are options. A few patterns can be used as-is; most will
require modifications. Don't limit yourself to just the eveningwear
section - sometimes there are options in the regular dress section or
even in the Costume section.
Here are some examples of patterns that
have been in the pattern books over the last few years. Click on the
picture to see a larger image.
Please note that because patterns change
so quickly, there's no guarantee that these patterns will always be in
the current pattern books. However, some patterns do stay in the books
for awhile, and you can often find discontinued patterns on eBay. And
some of these patterns are available for purchase, as noted below.
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Classic two-piece styling with a scallop
bottom on the top (easily modified if you would like it straight,
pointed, or curved). Darted bodice and your choice of a
narrow or six-gore flared skirt. Check the neckline fit carefully on the
pattern, before you cut it out and sew.
This
pattern available for online purchase |
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Simple darted styling on the bodice, puffed
sleeves, flared skirt. The neckline will need to be raised on this one.
This
pattern available for online purchase |
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Classic, elegant princess styling on this
one-piece dress will flatter any figure. No bodice seam, just long
princess seaming top to bottom. Lengthen it and sew it in a
fancy material for a beautiful gown.
This
pattern available for online purchase |
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Classic, simple dress that's very fast and
easy to sew. It has princess seams on the bodice, and a slightly flared
skirt. When I have made this dress, I have raised the neckline about 2"
in front, and brought it in on the side neckline about 1". If you made
this dress out of a stretchy material, you could probably eliminate the
back zipper. |
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Princess styling on the bodice and a
fishtail train on the narrow skirt. Raglan sleeve on the bodice may be
easier for beginners to sew than a regular set-in sleeve. Fun optional double-flare on the sleeve. Check the neckline carefully before you sew; it may need
to be raised. |
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Princess styling on the bodice and a narrow
or flared skirt with a slight train. Fun flared sleeve. |
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Classic two-piece styling. Princess lines on
the bodice, and a narrow or flared skirt. |
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Princess styling with an additional dart,
and a raglan sleeve on the bodice (may be easier for beginners to sew
than a set-in sleeve). Your choice of narrow or flared skirt. |