Sewing A Bridesmaid Dress: A Youtube Guide

There are many YouTube tutorials that can teach you how to sew a bridesmaid dress. You can learn how to sew a cocktail dress/bridesmaid dress, how to sew and dye your bridesmaid dress, and how to make a wedding dress from start to finish. If you're an absolute beginner, you might want to start by finding inspiration and choosing a pattern and fabric. You can also purchase a pattern that resembles the dress you're making.

Finding inspiration

• Look for inspiration online: Browse websites, blogs, or social media platforms like Pinterest to find images of bridesmaid dresses that appeal to you. You can also search for specific keywords, such as "bridesmaid dress sewing patterns" or "DIY bridesmaid dress ideas". This can help you discover new styles, colour combinations, or unique details that you may not have considered otherwise.
• Consider the wedding theme and colour palette: The wedding theme and colour scheme can provide a great starting point for your inspiration. For example, if the wedding has a rustic theme, you might want to incorporate natural, earthy tones and textures into your dress. If the wedding colours are blush and gold, you can draw inspiration from these shades when choosing your fabric or designing your dress.
• Think about the season and venue: The time of year and location of the wedding can also influence the style and fabric choice for your bridesmaid dress. For example, if it's a summer wedding on a beach, you might opt for lightweight and flowy fabrics in soft, pastel colours. On the other hand, a winter wedding in a ballroom might call for more luxurious and elegant fabrics like velvet or satin in richer hues.
• Browse bridal magazines and blogs: Bridal publications and websites are a treasure trove of inspiration for wedding attire. Look for features on bridesmaid dresses, real wedding features, or trend forecasts to spark your creativity.
• Draw inspiration from nature: Nature provides an endless source of inspiration with its diverse colour palettes and textures. You can take cues from the wedding location or the surrounding environment. For instance, if the wedding is set in a garden, you might draw inspiration from the delicate pastel shades of blooming flowers or the vibrant green foliage.
• Seek out unique details: Keep an eye out for unique design elements that can elevate your bridesmaid dress. This could be an interesting neckline, a dramatic sleeve, a stylish cut-out, or a statement back detail. Sometimes, it's the small details that make the biggest impact.

Remember, inspiration is everywhere! By combining your personal style with the wedding aesthetics and drawing ideas from various sources, you'll be well on your way to designing a beautiful and unique bridesmaid dress.

Choosing a pattern

Consider the Occasion and Venue:

Think about the formality of the wedding and the venue. For example, a black-tie wedding in a grand ballroom may call for more formal and elegant dresses, while a rustic outdoor wedding might suit flowy and relaxed styles.

Choose a Flattering Silhouette:

Consider the body types of your bridesmaids and choose a silhouette that will flatter their figures. Some popular options include A-line, sheath, mermaid, or ball gown styles. You can also mix and match styles to suit individual body types while maintaining a cohesive look.

Fabric and Season:

The fabric and style of the dress should be appropriate for the season. Lightweight and breathable fabrics like chiffon or organza are ideal for summer weddings, while velvet or satin might be more suitable for winter.

Simplicity vs. Detail:

Consider the level of detail you want in the dress. Simple silhouettes can be elegant and timeless, while intricate details like ruffles, beading, or lace overlays can add visual interest and a luxurious feel.

Customization and Personalization:

Remember that you can customize and adapt patterns to your unique vision. Consider adding special touches like a dramatic back, a train, or unique sleeve styles. You can also incorporate elements that tie in with the bridal gown or the wedding theme.

Skill Level and Time Commitment:

Be realistic about your sewing skills and the time you have available. Some patterns are more complex and time-consuming than others. If you're a beginner, opt for a simpler pattern or consider enlisting the help of a professional seamstress or dressmaker.

Sources and Availability:

Explore various sources for patterns, including online platforms like Etsy and PDF pattern sellers, as well as traditional pattern books and sewing magazines. Consider the availability of the pattern and whether it can be easily accessed or purchased.

Remember, the pattern you choose will be the foundation of your bridesmaid dress, so take your time, consider all the factors, and don't be afraid to ask for help or advice if needed.

Picking a fabric

When it comes to picking the fabric for your bridesmaids' dresses, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the fabric should complement the wedding dress and colour scheme, while also being appropriate for the season. The venue and level of formality of the wedding should also be taken into account. For example, if you're having a beach wedding, chiffon or tulle dresses would be a good choice, while for a black-tie reception in a grand ballroom, sequin dresses or fully beaded gowns would be more suitable.

Another thing to consider is the weight and texture of the fabric. If you're having a fall or winter wedding, opt for heavier fabrics such as faille, velvet, or crepe back satin. For spring and summer weddings, lightweight and sheer fabrics like chiffon or organza are a better choice. The drape and flow of the fabric are also important – fabrics like chiffon, mesh, and georgette drape beautifully and create a romantic, ethereal look.

The structure and silhouette of the dress should also influence your fabric choice. Fabrics like charmeuse, satin, and silk have a beautiful drape but can also be stiffer, making them suitable for structured silhouettes. If you want a more relaxed or flowy look, go for fabrics with more stretch, such as mesh or jersey.

Finally, think about the comfort and practicality of the fabric. Some fabrics, like lace, can be itchy or uncomfortable, so it's important to consider how your bridesmaids will feel in the dresses. You should also consider the cost – more expensive fabrics like silk or beaded mesh may be out of your budget.

Remember, the fabric you choose will play a significant role in achieving the desired aesthetic for your bridal party, so pick something that aligns with the overall theme and feel of your wedding.

Natural dyeing

To achieve this, the writer of the blog post purchased madder root and silk chiffon fabric from Etsy. They plan to use the madder root to dye the silk chiffon fabric, creating a subtle, peachy-pink shade. This is a good option for natural dyeing as silk takes colour well, although it is important to ensure that the fabric can withstand water without damage.

The writer also purchased indigo dye "for fun", which can be used to create a range of colours from charcoal to eggplant shades. However, it is important to note that black is one of the most challenging colours to achieve, especially when dyeing fabric that has any resistance.

Before beginning the natural dyeing process, it is important to test the dye on a small swatch of fabric to ensure the desired colour is achieved. This will also allow you to see how the fabric reacts to the dye and whether it can withstand the process.

Once the fabric has been dyed to the desired colour, it can be cut and sewn according to the chosen pattern.

Sewing the bodice

Preparing the Bodice Pattern

Start by choosing the type of bodice you want to create. For a simpler option, go with a dartless bodice, which has a boxy shape and isn't very fitted. Consider the amount of ease you want, adding more if you prefer a looser fit. If your dress includes sleeves, you'll need to account for that in your pattern.

Modifying the Basic Pattern

The basic bodice pattern typically only reaches hip level, so you'll need to add length. Measure from the waist down and lengthen the pattern pieces accordingly. Don't forget to add a bit of extra length between the c-front and bust point, as the hemline can rise due to the bust.

Adjusting the Neckline and Sleeves

Enlarge the neckline of the basic bodice to your desired size or shape, ensuring that the front and back necklines align at the shoulders. If you're adding sleeves, consider the style and volume. For example, if you're going for a wide-shouldered look, you may want to adjust the armholes and shoulder line.

Creating a Flared Effect

Add a horizontal seam below the bust to create a right angle at the c-front and c-back, ensuring the front and back pieces match at the side seam. This seam will add extra flare to the lower part of the dress.

Finalising the Dress Pattern

Complete the dress pattern by adding flare to the lower portion using the slash and spread method. This will enhance the overall shape and flow of the dress.

Once you have your pattern ready, cut out the bodice pieces, being mindful of the fabric's grain line and any specific pattern placement. Serge or zig-zag stitch the edges to prevent fraying, especially if you're working with delicate or fray-prone fabric.

Constructing the Bodice

Close the shoulder and side seams of both the main layer and the lining (if using one). Sew the lining to the main layer around the neckline, right sides together, and then edge stitch the lining to the seam allowance for a neat finish.

Attaching the Sleeves (if applicable)

Close the underarm seams of the sleeves, hem them, and then sew gathering stitches between the armhole notches. Gather the sleeve cap to match the armhole, and then pin and sew it into the armhole, right sides together, matching the notches and seams.

Combining the Bodice and Skirt

After completing the bodice, you can attach it to the skirt portion of the dress. Ensure that the grain lines and seams match up, and carefully sew or serge the bodice and skirt together.

Inserting the Zipper

Choose a zipper that complements the weight and style of your fabric. Open the zipper and pin one side to the dress, with the teeth pointing inwards. Sew the zipper in place using a zipper foot. Then, close the zipper and pin the remaining side, making any necessary adjustments to ensure both sides align. Baste and sew the second side of the zipper.

Finishing Touches

If your dress has a lining, attach it to the opposite side of the zipper, folding down the upper corner of the zipper tape and flipping the lining on top. Ensure the neckline seam remains centred, and pin and sew in place. Give the dress a final press, and you've successfully sewn the bodice of your bridesmaid dress!

Frequently asked questions