The Mal Dress is a lovely minimal-waste sewing pattern that is free to download. If you’ve seen my previous posts (here and here), you’ll know I’m all about those fabulous puffy sleeves! This pattern rocks puffy sleeves and tiered skirt panels, but I couldn’t resist adding my own spin with a few modifications. I found an adorable off-white fabric in my stash—it’s got a charming windowpane plaid pattern with dashed beige lines, and it’s perfect for this dress!
The Pattern Modifications
I raised the neckline and opted for a rounded shape. For a shorter look, I shortened the length of the top skirt panel (tier 1 skirt). For the pockets, I used a free pocket pattern from Soften Studio.
The Sewing Process
Sewing this dress is pretty straightforward! First, I sewed the bodice together and finished the neckline with a cute pastel gingham bias tape I snagged from Daiso a while ago. I then gathered the top sleeves and sewed them to the bodice. Once the sleeves were attached, I sewed a channel and threaded the elastic through. And for the last few steps, gathering the tiered skirt panels, stitching up the pockets, and attaching them to the bodice.
I followed Soften Studio’s helpful tutorial to attach in-seam pockets using French seams. It’s incredibly satisfying to see those neat French seams when you turn the dress inside out—pure sewing magic!
The Finishing Touch
I put those leftover fabric scraps to good use by sewing front bow ties for an extra dose of cuteness!
The modified dress has such a cottagecore vibe—adorably cute and made for spinning and twirling! If I use this pattern again, the one tweak I’ll make is to raise the neckline a tad more. I find it a bit too roomy. I’ve worn it out a few times on casual strolls in the park and brunch dates with friends. I think this is a lovely dress that you can wear all through summer, spring, and fall!
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