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Projects & Patterns

Pattern Roundup: Puffed Sleeves for Voluminous Romance

I have often been accused of being Selkie obsessed. Because styles often sell out in many sizes, I’ve pulled together a list of Selkie-esque dress patterns and so you too can fully customize a romantic, puffed-sleeve dress. Then there are no more worries about that perfect dress selling out.

We have seen some amazing makes of different styles reminiscent of the Selkie original. Fabric sources range from Goodwill curtains and bedsheets to elegant and elaborately embroidered floral designer fabrics. This floaty style works for all body types and can be turned all the way up by adding layers, length, or lace.

To support a gorgeous puffed sleeve cap in lightweight fabric, consider adding a sleeve head.

If you’re working with a sheer or lightweight fabric, you may want to apply a narrow hem. There’s no need to fuss with a rolled-hem presser foot. Instead, follow these instructions for a tidy, easy-to-sew baby hem.


M8359: Misses’ Top and Dress by Brandi Joan

McCall's M8359 | Misses' Top and Dress by Brandi Joan

This lined bodice dress (or top) by Brandi Joan features bust tie closure with lightly shaped cups. The front and side boning detail provides additional support. Women’s sizes 6 to 22 (bust 30-1/2 inches to 44 inches, waist 23 inches to 37 inches, hips 31-1/2 inches to 46 inches).


Amelia Puff Sleeve Dress

Amelia Puff Dress Pattern

The Amelia Puff Sleeve Dress is a summer dress with a fully lined fitted bodice, with princess seams. The gathered puffy sleeves have a ruffled, elasticized hem. The gathered semicircular skirt is unlined and can be extended for a tea-length or full-length gown. This pattern is for experienced sewists. Make a wearable muslin from a thrifted sheet to test the construction and fit.

The link above is for the size XL to 5XL pattern. The XS to XL pattern can be found here, and patternmaker even offers girls’ and teen patterns.


Anika Thisiskachi Milkmaid Dress

Anika Milkmaid Dress

This off-the-shoulder dress is relatively easy to sew and easy to alter. Reviews suggest that beginners will find it helpful to watch the designer’s YouTube tutorial. Choose your size based on bust size, and make your romantic day dress dreams come true.


Elena Puff Sleeve Dress

Elena Puff Dress Pattern

This lined dress features an empire waistline and adorable elbow-length sleeves with elastic at the shoulders and ruffled hems. If you fit the bodice snugly, the sleeve can be worn off the shoulder as well. The pattern is for a mid-thigh length skirt, but you could easily length it or gather the hem to create a puff shape. In-seam pockets make this adorable Selkie dress pattern a clear fan favorite. Women’s sizes 2 to 22 (bust 30 to 49 inches).


McCalls M8108 Empire-Waist Puff Dress

This gathered empire-waist dress design is flexible and includes multiple lengths, necklines, and straps. It’s perfect for a night on the town or for promenading. Women’s sizes 6 to 24 (bust 30-1/2 inches to 46 inches, waist 23 inches to 39 inches, hips 31-1/2 inches to 48 inches).


Noelle Dress Pattern

This fully lined dress exudes romance and whimsy. The sweetheart neckline can be easily raised or lowered or changed to a straight neckline. The sleeves have elasticized armscye seams, so they can be worn on or off the shoulders. The dress is midi-length with a full, gathered skirt and an invisible zipper.

Noelle dress size chart


Stitch Witch Capulet Dress

Selkie Sewing Pattern Capulet Dress

This customizable pattern features two sleeves, a fitted Juliet sleeve or a structured puff sleeve. The dress bodice has a fitted, semi-empire waist that sits above the natural waistline. Using a fabric like organza or taffetta will result in a puffier, fuller look. More drape will result in a more relaxed look.


Have you made any of these patterns? If so, be sure to share pictures in our Readers Closet gallery or tag us on Instagram with #memadethreads.

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