Click here to view the step by step sewing tutorial for the Hope Woven Dress.
Reviews (31)
31 reviews for Hope Woven Dress
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
w********9(verified owner) – :
I can see why this dress has so many high reviews. I loved how mine turned out. Will definitely be making more in the future.
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Single-Size
l*********a(verified owner) – :
Super easy pattern to make. After reading the reviews I decided to use a bias strip instead of a facing. I eliminated the neck opening and added a grill at the hem. Loved the result and have made four of these dresses
3 out of 5
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
c*********8(verified owner) – :
Despite reading the final measurements this came out swamping me – fitted across the chest but way too big at the sides and back. I have taken it apart and taken 20 cms out each side and half a cm out of the top. Will go back and check the pattern to see if the measurements are accurate. I can’t believe a 36DD bust comes out at size 18!
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Single-Size
c**********k(verified owner) – :
I made my Hope dress in a printed linen/viscose, and interlined it with muslin to eliminate the issue some people have had with facings. I hand stitched the facings to the interlining (did the same with the hem), and swapped the elastic at the bottom of the sleeves for a bias-cut band. It worked really well. It’s a lovely dress, very flattering. I intend to make at least 1 more.
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Single-Size
j********t(verified owner) – :
My HOPE dress has turned out very well and I received half a dozen compliments on my first wearing. I made it out of an Indian sari and it draped beautifully. I made the sleeves a little shorter so they sit, still with a blousing effect, just above the elbow.
Next time, I’m going to make it ankle length, perhaps also with more width in the skirt. I won’t put the opening in the back again as my head fits through easily. I am also tempted to do as others have suggested, and not do facing but use bias binding. I may add that my facing sits neatly, though, so it’s not for that reason.
It’s very comfortable to wear and I can see my self wearing it a lot this summer. My next one will be in pure cotton. I’ll probably keep the elbow length sleeves as they work well for me.
Thanks Style Arc. Great pattern.
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
C*******e(verified owner) – :
So glad i got this pattern. I saw it made up and it looked much better than the picture on the pattern. Have made 2 and will maybe try it in a ponte for the cooler weather.
I didn’t sew the back opening on my second one as it fitted over my head easily.
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
m*******o(verified owner) – :
Love this pattern and will be making many more. I made the dress as a long top as I am too short to get away with the dress style. It looks fabulous and being rather “busty”, hangs beautifully. Very happy!
4 out of 5
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Single-Size
R**a(verified owner) – :
The pattern is nice, but If you usually do fba, round back and / or forward shoulder- do them!
I didn´t, and the dress hangs badly in use. I also recommend to lengthen the sleeves.
They creep over the elbow when I use my arms- and I need to drag them down, they don´t fall down by themselves. I do not have long arms, so that is not the reason, but maybe it will not be a problem with a drapier, heavier fabric.
I made the dress in 100% cotton. It feels very cosy, and the pockets are lovely.
This version will maybe be used as a nightgown, at least it will never be worn outside my house…
I may try another version in a more drapy fabric, and do the adjustments for my personal preference…
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Multi-Size
K****n(verified owner) – :
I love my Hope Dress! (Unfortunately, I do not have any pictures yet.)
Based on my bust measurement compared to the sizing chart which can be found online I chose my size – and it was spot-on! The only modifications I did: Firstly I have straight, broad shoulders thus I lifted the shoulders in the pattern and added a small dart on the shoulders. Secondly, I added a bit more volume to the skirt (approx. 10 cm to the pattern piece) since I wanted it to be a bit fuller. But then – I assume it is due to this addition – I needed more fabric. Which I happily added. Many thanks for this pattern! (PS: I found the instructions sufficient but I am a very proficient sewer. They might be a bit concise for beginners.)
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Single-Size
l********d(verified owner) – :
Wonderfully easy and versatile pattern. I made the size 14 and I love the room and flow in this dress. Really easy and quick to come together, with large pockets for carrying all sorts of fun things (read: snacks). I am typically a size 12-14, so even though this dress is meant to be oversized I would err on the side of making maybe a size bigger- unless your fabric has stretch, mine certainly did not!
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Single-Size
c**********r(verified owner) – :
I really love this pattern, I’ve made two already. However, I have had to change quite a few parts of the pattern. For the sleeves: I lengthened the sleeves, and used bias binding to finish the sleeve instead of elastic (I think elastic looks cheap and nasty). Neckline: I omitted the back split and used bias binding instead of facing. Bodice: I lengthened the bodice (I have a long body). I really like the volume of the sleeves in this pattern, and the way you can use the front bodice panel to show off a gorgeous contrasting/ complimentary fabric. I love that this is a relaxed fit without being too voluminous. With some similar styles, you drown in fabric, but this one feels easy to wear and doesn’t use extravagant amounts of fabric for the skirt. I’ll be making more.
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
j**********1(verified owner) – :
This dress was easy to make and very comfortable. I found I could get it over my head without putting the slit in the back of the bodice, so when I made it a second time, I left that out – which made it even faster to make. Planning on making a couple more. Next time I will probably make the skirt in too tiers so it looks a bit different, and may make the sleeves about 5 cm shorter.
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Single-Size
k******e(verified owner) – :
I made this dress in a fine Japanese cotton and lined it in a similar plain lightweight cotton from my mother’s stash. It is the perfect traveling outfit, no constriction and lots of ‘aeration’ in the hot weather. I have had so many random compliments; whilst hopping out of the car at the airport, from the woman at the security gate and more. Such an easy make and a comfortable wear! Will be making more.
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Multi-Size
s********d(verified owner) – :
I have now lost count of the number of hope dresses I have made. I have exhausted the fine needlecord in my local shop!!! But did make a lovely tarten one for Christmas. Although pattern matching was very challenging!
however, this pattern i bought to make a dress for my daughter. her choice. made it in a jersey animal print. it is a bit large, but she loves it.
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Single-Size
j*************1(verified owner) – :
Absolutely loved this! I changed the sleeve up for a more summer friendly style but the pattern was easy and the complements I received were ego boosting!
4 out of 5
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Single-Size
f***********a(verified owner) – :
This is an excellent pattern and a unique take on the oversized maxi dress trend. I made the size to match my bust measurement with the following alterations as I’m 182cm tall :
. Added 9cm length to the front and back bodice
. Added more volume to the “skirt” cutting two panels fabric width (140cm)
. Eliminated the back neck opening
There’s a lot of scope for a spectacular fabric display – I used an Italian cotton voile for a short version (reduced skirt length to 55cm ) and some heavy weight cotton sateen for the long .
I was complemented on my dress three times in the space of 1/2 hour along an expensive shopping strip (think $2000 dresses) – so I’m going to make a third version because knowing you’ve made your amazing look yourself is addictive 😉 .
Ps it’s worth making a dress in a cheaper fabric to get everything “just right” and then investing in a spectacular print – I used end of roll Dolce & Gabbana to create my super chic version
4 out of 5
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
d***********y(verified owner) – :
Lovely make, although sizing not as generous as other Style Arc patterns. I made it in a beautiful Art Gallery Challis, especially for a wedding. I had the same issue with the facings as other reviewers described ( and I don’t normally have these issues with facings). I have had lots of compliments, and this pattern was very flattering for a 60+ year old, especially in this beautiful fabric, so I would make this pattern again but would deal with the neckline differently. There clearly is a problem as the neck facing which would not lie correctly even with careful understitching. I had to resort to top stitching as well ( which I would have preferred to avoid). P.S. It would be nice to be able just to upload a photo from a device rather than having to linkireviews to social media – especially as your link above to FB does not work!
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Multi-Size
R*************e(verified owner) – :
I made the Hope dress in a medium weight linen and I’m very happy with the result. Well cut pattern and I will make more. My only concern with the Style Arc patterns is the instructions. Print could be larger please!
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Single-Size
j*****1(verified owner) – :
Love this pattern, looking forward to making many more. So versatile. I made mine in a light weight denim for the top section and a slightly heavier weight one for skirt in a contrasting print. Really happy with the fit and easy construction.
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Single-Size
b***h(verified owner) – :
Hope is a very easy and simpel pattern, and the result is fantastic. I will absolutely make this model in other fabrics.
I will also make it in the shorter version, but my problem is, that I cannot se the fabric estimate for this model.
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
p***************m(verified owner) – :
I love this pattern. I have, up to now, made 3 but I am going to make so many more. The pattern is quick and easy and the dress is soooo comfortable to wear. I love it and I have had so many compliments when wearing one
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Single-Size
R*n(verified owner) – :
This has fast become an absolute favourite pattern of mine. I’ve made 2 already and the third is in production. So easy to wear with just the right amount of gather to feel comfortable but not swamped. I’ve omitted the back opening as mine fits over my head without it. Love the length and the sleeves.
Quick sew, made in 2 afternoons.
Made in 7 oz washed linen for my daughter who didn’t want elastic in sleeves.
I used a lightweight stretch interfacing and hope neckline lays flat.
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
d*****k(verified owner) – :
Very easy to make and wear. I made the sleeve a bit longer and finished the neck with bias without the split.
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Single-Size
s********d(verified owner) – :
I liked the look of the Hope dress as soon as it came out, but wasnt sure it would suit me. But i decided to give it a go anyway. And i absolutely love it so will be making more! i have loved all the Style Arc patterns i have used so far, but think this might be my favourite. so easy to make and even easier to wear. need more fabric to make more of them now 🙂 thank you Style Arc for making patterns for larger ladies that are stylish and different.
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Multi-Size
B***********a(verified owner) – :
Hope is a favourite of mine! Easy to sew & easy to wear. On my versions I left off the back neck split, lowered the front neckline slightly & finished the neckline with bias tape. Asking for a friend…. how many Hope’s are too many?
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Multi-Size
s**************3(verified owner) – :
Great pattern, easy to sew. Made up in a lovely ramie print just waiting for spring to arrive to wear it.
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Multi-Size
s***e(verified owner) – :
Great pattern. Easy to sew and have received many compliments when I have worn it. I made it in a lightweight linen cotton which is perfect for the austsummer
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Single-Size
p***o(verified owner) – :
I love this pattern and plan to make it again when the weather in Perth stops being so hot! I made the longer version in a fairly structured linen and it worked out well straight from the pattern. Style Arc patterns are always well drafted so you can rely on them.
3 out of 5
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Multi-Size
j********g(verified owner) – :
Sizing is great, the bodice is lovely, but I’ve just finished making it and the neck facing doesn’t sit flat because the weight of the dress pulls the neck line out of shape or something. I made it out of very fluid medium weight linen which has a lot of give and is hard to keep in shape when cutting etc so it’s not surprising it’s sagging. I don’t like the feel of the rumpled neck facing so I am hoping if I cut it off around the front it won’t make it worse. I’d say this is only a problem with soft linen though. Observing other linen dresses I own they all have binding not facing around the neck. I wish I had made it out of something that holds structure better.
5 out of 5
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Single-Size
s***********************m(verified owner) – :
Thank you Style Arc. You have done it again. A great pattern perfect fit for me. The length is always right. A very easy make with a pleasing result.
Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.
Garment Measurements & Fabric Estimate
Finished Pattern Measurements (cm)
sizes
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
22
24
26
28
30
Bust
81.0
86.0
91.0
96.0
101.0
106.0
111.0
116.0
122.0
128.0
134.0
140.0
146.0
152.0
High waist seam
81.0
86.0
91.0
96.0
101.0
106.0
111.0
116.0
122.0
128.0
134.0
140.0
146.0
152.0
Bodice length from back high shoulder point
34.7
35.3
35.9
36.5
37.1
37.7
38.3
38.9
39.5
40.1
40.7
41.3
41.9
42.5
Sleeve length from neck edge
51.3
52.2
53.1
54.0
54.9
55.8
56.7
57.6
58.5
59.4
60.3
61.2
62.1
63.0
Centre back length for short style from high shoulder point
88.2
88.8
89.4
90.0
90.6
91.2
91.8
92.4
93.0
93.6
94.2
94.8
95.4
96.0
Centre back length for long length from high shoulder point
Please use the body measurements size charts below to determine your best size.
All Style Arc patterns are in Australian sizes.
Style Arc patterns are drafted for a B bust cup size and a height of 167cm (5'6").
Size Chart - CM
Size
A. Shoulder Breadth (cm)
B. Upper Arm Girth (cm)
C. Bust (cm)
D. Waist (cm)
E. Hip (cm)
4
34.4
26.4
77
60
83
6
35.6
27.6
82
65
88
8
36.8
28.8
87
70
93
10
38
30
92
75
98
12
39.2
31.2
97
80
103
14
40.4
32.4
102
85
108
16
41.6
33.6
107
90
113
18
42.8
34.8
112
95
118
20
44
36
118
100
124
22
45.2
37.2
124
106
130
24
46.4
38.4
130
112
136
26
47.6
39.6
136
118
142
28
48.8
40.8
142
124
148
30
50
42
148
130
154
32
51.2
43.8
156.0
139.0
162.0
34
52.4
45.6
164.0
147.0
170.0
36
53.6
47.4
172.0
155.0
178.0
Size Chart - Inches
Size
A. Shoulder Breadth (inches)
B. Upper Arm Girth (inches)
C. Bust (inches)
D. Waist (inches)
E. Hip (inches)
4
13.5
10.5
30.3
23.5
32.6
6
14
10.9
32.3
25.5
34.6
8
14.5
11.3
34.3
27.5
36.6
10
15
11.8
36.2
29.5
38.6
12
15.4
12.3
38.2
31.5
40.6
14
15.9
12.8
40.2
33.5
42.5
16
16.4
13.2
42.1
35.5
44.5
18
16.9
13.7
44.1
37.5
46.5
20
17.3
14.2
46.5
39.5
48.8
22
17.8
14.6
48.8
42
51.2
24
18.3
15.1
51.2
44.5
53.5
26
18 3⁄4
15 5⁄8
53 1⁄2
46.5
56
28
19 1⁄4
16 1⁄8
56
48.5
58 1⁄4
30
19 3⁄4
16 5⁄8
58 1⁄4
50.5
61
32
20 1⁄8
17 1⁄4
61 3⁄8
54 3⁄4
63 3⁄4
34
20 5⁄8
18
64 5⁄8
57 7⁄8
66 7⁄8
36
21 1⁄8
18 5⁄8
67 3⁄4
61
70 1⁄8
Size Conversion Table
ALPHA SIZING
AUSTRALIA
UK
US
FRANCE
ITALY
JAPAN
XXS
6
6
2
34
38
5
XS
8
8
4
36
40
7
S
10
10
6
38
42
9
M
12
12
8
40
44
11
L
14
14
10
42
46
13
XL
16
16
12
44
48
15
XXL
18
18
14
46
50
17
How Do I Know What Size I Am?
Choosing your pattern size is the most important step and we will help you determine this with these easy to follow steps.
When taking your measurements ensure that you take them against your skin and not over clothing. One can wear a comfortable bra and knickers whilst measuring, as this will provide you with the most accurate measurements.
Tape measure has to sit firmly around the points you are measuring. But be careful not to pull it too tight, as this will give you the incorrect size.
When measuring circumferences (B, C, D, E) it is important to note that the tape measure must remain parallel to the floor. It is sometimes best to take the measurements in front of a mirror; this will help you see the angle of the tape measure.
You will only require the basic body measurements to determine your pattern size which is indicated on our mannequin below:
A. Shoulder Breadth
Place the tape at the edge of the shoulder. Measure along the top of the shoulder blade/across the highest point of the shoulders to the other edge, following the natural slope and allow an extra finger for ease of any movement.
B. Upper Arm Girth
This point is taken as a circumference at your widest point of your upper arm.
C. Bust
This point is taken as a circumference parallel to the floor at the fullest part of your chest.
D. Waist
This point is taken as a circumference and taken at the smallest part of your waist.
E. Hip
This point is taken as a circumference parallel to the floor at the widest part of your hips.
PDF Details
PDF Page Counts
PDF Pattern Size
PDF File Page Count
4
29
6
32
8
33
10
34
12
34
14
34
16
35
18
37
20
38
22
39
24
39
26
39
28
39
30
42
PDF File Inclusions With Purchase
PDF Pattern Size
PDF Files Included with Purchase
Size 4
Size 4 Size 6 Size 8 Wide Format Size 4 Wide Format Size 6 Wide Format Size 8 Construction Sheet
Size 6
Size 6 Size 4 Size 8 Wide Format Size 6 Wide Format Size 4 Wide Format Size 8 Construction Sheet
Size 8
Size 8 Size 6 Size 10 Wide Format Size 8 Wide Format Size 6 Wide Format Size 10 Construction Sheet
Size 10
Size 10 Size 8 Size 12 Wide Format Size 10 Wide Format Size 8 Wide Format Size 12 Construction Sheet
Size 12
Size 12 Size 10 Size 14 Wide Format Size 12 Wide Format Size 10 Wide Format Size 14 Construction Sheet
Size 14
Size 14 Size 12 Size 16 Wide Format Size 14 Wide Format Size 12 Wide Format Size 16 Construction Sheet
Size 16
Size 16 Size 14 Size 18 Wide Format Size 16 Wide Format Size 14 Wide Format Size 18 Construction Sheet
Size 18
Size 18 Size 16 Size 20 Wide Format Size 18 Wide Format Size 16 Wide Format Size 20 Construction Sheet
Size 20
Size 20 Size 18 Size 22 Wide Format Size 20 Wide Format Size 18 Wide Format Size 22 Construction Sheet
Size 22
Size 22 Size 20 Size 24 Wide Format Size 22 Wide Format Size 20 Wide Format Size 24 Construction Sheet
Size 24
Size 24 Size 22 Size 26 Wide Format Size 24 Wide Format Size 22 Wide Format Size 26 Construction Sheet
Size 26
Size 26 Size 24 Size 28 Wide Format Size 26 Wide Format Size 24 Wide Format Size 28 Construction Sheet
Size 28
Size 28 Size 26 Size 30 Wide Format Size 28 Wide Format Size 26 Wide Format Size 30 Construction Sheet
Size 30
Size 30 Size 28 Size 26 Wide Format Size 30 Wide Format Size 28 Wide Format Size 26 Construction Sheet
Pattern Format Details
Pattern Format
PDF Digital Pattern - Single-Size
Single-size PDF sewing pattern download, sent to your email address in multi-sheet/tiled format for printing at home on A4 or US letter size paper AND single-sheet/wide format for printing at a copy shop. You get the size you order, PLUS the two closest sizes. Please note that the wide format files are set up for printing on 36" wide (or wider) paper rolls, not A0 paper sheets.
Multi-size PDF sewing pattern download, sent to your email address in multi-sheet/tiled format for printing at home on A4 or US letter size paper and single-sheet/wide format for printing at a copy shop. Please note that the wide format files are set up for printing on 36" wide (or wider) paper rolls, and also A0 paper sheets.
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
w********9 (verified owner) – :
I can see why this dress has so many high reviews. I loved how mine turned out. Will definitely be making more in the future.
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Single-Size
l*********a (verified owner) – :
Super easy pattern to make. After reading the reviews I decided to use a bias strip instead of a facing. I eliminated the neck opening and added a grill at the hem. Loved the result and have made four of these dresses
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
c*********8 (verified owner) – :
Despite reading the final measurements this came out swamping me – fitted across the chest but way too big at the sides and back. I have taken it apart and taken 20 cms out each side and half a cm out of the top. Will go back and check the pattern to see if the measurements are accurate. I can’t believe a 36DD bust comes out at size 18!
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Single-Size
c**********k (verified owner) – :
I made my Hope dress in a printed linen/viscose, and interlined it with muslin to eliminate the issue some people have had with facings. I hand stitched the facings to the interlining (did the same with the hem), and swapped the elastic at the bottom of the sleeves for a bias-cut band. It worked really well. It’s a lovely dress, very flattering. I intend to make at least 1 more.
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Single-Size
j********t (verified owner) – :
My HOPE dress has turned out very well and I received half a dozen compliments on my first wearing. I made it out of an Indian sari and it draped beautifully. I made the sleeves a little shorter so they sit, still with a blousing effect, just above the elbow.
Next time, I’m going to make it ankle length, perhaps also with more width in the skirt. I won’t put the opening in the back again as my head fits through easily. I am also tempted to do as others have suggested, and not do facing but use bias binding. I may add that my facing sits neatly, though, so it’s not for that reason.
It’s very comfortable to wear and I can see my self wearing it a lot this summer. My next one will be in pure cotton. I’ll probably keep the elbow length sleeves as they work well for me.
Thanks Style Arc. Great pattern.
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
C*******e (verified owner) – :
So glad i got this pattern. I saw it made up and it looked much better than the picture on the pattern. Have made 2 and will maybe try it in a ponte for the cooler weather.
I didn’t sew the back opening on my second one as it fitted over my head easily.
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
m*******o (verified owner) – :
Love this pattern and will be making many more. I made the dress as a long top as I am too short to get away with the dress style. It looks fabulous and being rather “busty”, hangs beautifully. Very happy!
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Single-Size
R**a (verified owner) – :
The pattern is nice, but If you usually do fba, round back and / or forward shoulder- do them!
I didn´t, and the dress hangs badly in use. I also recommend to lengthen the sleeves.
They creep over the elbow when I use my arms- and I need to drag them down, they don´t fall down by themselves. I do not have long arms, so that is not the reason, but maybe it will not be a problem with a drapier, heavier fabric.
I made the dress in 100% cotton. It feels very cosy, and the pockets are lovely.
This version will maybe be used as a nightgown, at least it will never be worn outside my house…
I may try another version in a more drapy fabric, and do the adjustments for my personal preference…
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Multi-Size
K****n (verified owner) – :
I love my Hope Dress! (Unfortunately, I do not have any pictures yet.)
Based on my bust measurement compared to the sizing chart which can be found online I chose my size – and it was spot-on! The only modifications I did: Firstly I have straight, broad shoulders thus I lifted the shoulders in the pattern and added a small dart on the shoulders. Secondly, I added a bit more volume to the skirt (approx. 10 cm to the pattern piece) since I wanted it to be a bit fuller. But then – I assume it is due to this addition – I needed more fabric. Which I happily added. Many thanks for this pattern! (PS: I found the instructions sufficient but I am a very proficient sewer. They might be a bit concise for beginners.)
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Single-Size
l********d (verified owner) – :
Wonderfully easy and versatile pattern. I made the size 14 and I love the room and flow in this dress. Really easy and quick to come together, with large pockets for carrying all sorts of fun things (read: snacks). I am typically a size 12-14, so even though this dress is meant to be oversized I would err on the side of making maybe a size bigger- unless your fabric has stretch, mine certainly did not!
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Single-Size
c**********r (verified owner) – :
I really love this pattern, I’ve made two already. However, I have had to change quite a few parts of the pattern. For the sleeves: I lengthened the sleeves, and used bias binding to finish the sleeve instead of elastic (I think elastic looks cheap and nasty). Neckline: I omitted the back split and used bias binding instead of facing. Bodice: I lengthened the bodice (I have a long body). I really like the volume of the sleeves in this pattern, and the way you can use the front bodice panel to show off a gorgeous contrasting/ complimentary fabric. I love that this is a relaxed fit without being too voluminous. With some similar styles, you drown in fabric, but this one feels easy to wear and doesn’t use extravagant amounts of fabric for the skirt. I’ll be making more.
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
j**********1 (verified owner) – :
This dress was easy to make and very comfortable. I found I could get it over my head without putting the slit in the back of the bodice, so when I made it a second time, I left that out – which made it even faster to make. Planning on making a couple more. Next time I will probably make the skirt in too tiers so it looks a bit different, and may make the sleeves about 5 cm shorter.
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Single-Size
k******e (verified owner) – :
I made this dress in a fine Japanese cotton and lined it in a similar plain lightweight cotton from my mother’s stash. It is the perfect traveling outfit, no constriction and lots of ‘aeration’ in the hot weather. I have had so many random compliments; whilst hopping out of the car at the airport, from the woman at the security gate and more. Such an easy make and a comfortable wear! Will be making more.
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Multi-Size
s********d (verified owner) – :
I have now lost count of the number of hope dresses I have made. I have exhausted the fine needlecord in my local shop!!! But did make a lovely tarten one for Christmas. Although pattern matching was very challenging!
however, this pattern i bought to make a dress for my daughter. her choice. made it in a jersey animal print. it is a bit large, but she loves it.
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Single-Size
j*************1 (verified owner) – :
Absolutely loved this! I changed the sleeve up for a more summer friendly style but the pattern was easy and the complements I received were ego boosting!
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Single-Size
f***********a (verified owner) – :
This is an excellent pattern and a unique take on the oversized maxi dress trend. I made the size to match my bust measurement with the following alterations as I’m 182cm tall :
. Added 9cm length to the front and back bodice
. Added more volume to the “skirt” cutting two panels fabric width (140cm)
. Eliminated the back neck opening
There’s a lot of scope for a spectacular fabric display – I used an Italian cotton voile for a short version (reduced skirt length to 55cm ) and some heavy weight cotton sateen for the long .
I was complemented on my dress three times in the space of 1/2 hour along an expensive shopping strip (think $2000 dresses) – so I’m going to make a third version because knowing you’ve made your amazing look yourself is addictive 😉 .
Ps it’s worth making a dress in a cheaper fabric to get everything “just right” and then investing in a spectacular print – I used end of roll Dolce & Gabbana to create my super chic version
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
d***********y (verified owner) – :
Lovely make, although sizing not as generous as other Style Arc patterns. I made it in a beautiful Art Gallery Challis, especially for a wedding. I had the same issue with the facings as other reviewers described ( and I don’t normally have these issues with facings). I have had lots of compliments, and this pattern was very flattering for a 60+ year old, especially in this beautiful fabric, so I would make this pattern again but would deal with the neckline differently. There clearly is a problem as the neck facing which would not lie correctly even with careful understitching. I had to resort to top stitching as well ( which I would have preferred to avoid). P.S. It would be nice to be able just to upload a photo from a device rather than having to linkireviews to social media – especially as your link above to FB does not work!
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Multi-Size
R*************e (verified owner) – :
I made the Hope dress in a medium weight linen and I’m very happy with the result. Well cut pattern and I will make more. My only concern with the Style Arc patterns is the instructions. Print could be larger please!
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Single-Size
j*****1 (verified owner) – :
Love this pattern, looking forward to making many more. So versatile. I made mine in a light weight denim for the top section and a slightly heavier weight one for skirt in a contrasting print. Really happy with the fit and easy construction.
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Single-Size
b***h (verified owner) – :
Hope is a very easy and simpel pattern, and the result is fantastic. I will absolutely make this model in other fabrics.
I will also make it in the shorter version, but my problem is, that I cannot se the fabric estimate for this model.
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
p***************m (verified owner) – :
I love this pattern. I have, up to now, made 3 but I am going to make so many more. The pattern is quick and easy and the dress is soooo comfortable to wear. I love it and I have had so many compliments when wearing one
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Single-Size
R*n (verified owner) – :
This has fast become an absolute favourite pattern of mine. I’ve made 2 already and the third is in production. So easy to wear with just the right amount of gather to feel comfortable but not swamped. I’ve omitted the back opening as mine fits over my head without it. Love the length and the sleeves.
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
j********9 (verified owner) – :
Quick sew, made in 2 afternoons.
Made in 7 oz washed linen for my daughter who didn’t want elastic in sleeves.
I used a lightweight stretch interfacing and hope neckline lays flat.
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
d*****k (verified owner) – :
Very easy to make and wear. I made the sleeve a bit longer and finished the neck with bias without the split.
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Single-Size
s********d (verified owner) – :
I liked the look of the Hope dress as soon as it came out, but wasnt sure it would suit me. But i decided to give it a go anyway. And i absolutely love it so will be making more! i have loved all the Style Arc patterns i have used so far, but think this might be my favourite. so easy to make and even easier to wear. need more fabric to make more of them now 🙂 thank you Style Arc for making patterns for larger ladies that are stylish and different.
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Multi-Size
B***********a (verified owner) – :
Hope is a favourite of mine! Easy to sew & easy to wear. On my versions I left off the back neck split, lowered the front neckline slightly & finished the neckline with bias tape. Asking for a friend…. how many Hope’s are too many?
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Multi-Size
s**************3 (verified owner) – :
Great pattern, easy to sew. Made up in a lovely ramie print just waiting for spring to arrive to wear it.
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Multi-Size
s***e (verified owner) – :
Great pattern. Easy to sew and have received many compliments when I have worn it. I made it in a lightweight linen cotton which is perfect for the austsummer
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Single-Size
p***o (verified owner) – :
I love this pattern and plan to make it again when the weather in Perth stops being so hot! I made the longer version in a fairly structured linen and it worked out well straight from the pattern. Style Arc patterns are always well drafted so you can rely on them.
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Multi-Size
j********g (verified owner) – :
Sizing is great, the bodice is lovely, but I’ve just finished making it and the neck facing doesn’t sit flat because the weight of the dress pulls the neck line out of shape or something. I made it out of very fluid medium weight linen which has a lot of give and is hard to keep in shape when cutting etc so it’s not surprising it’s sagging. I don’t like the feel of the rumpled neck facing so I am hoping if I cut it off around the front it won’t make it worse. I’d say this is only a problem with soft linen though. Observing other linen dresses I own they all have binding not facing around the neck. I wish I had made it out of something that holds structure better.
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Single-Size
s***********************m (verified owner) – :
Thank you Style Arc. You have done it again. A great pattern perfect fit for me. The length is always right. A very easy make with a pleasing result.