Dovetail Dress
Pleat dress sewing pattern back view
pleat dress front view with sleeves
pleat dress front view, sleeveless
Dovetail Dress
pleat dress sewing pattern with sleeves - front view
Pleat dress sewing pattern large
Dovetail pleat dress sewing pattern for women rear view
Dovetail pleat dress sewing pattern for women with tulle top
Dovetail dress sewing pattern for women with cropped sweater
Winter dress sewing pattern with pleat - back view
Womens winter dress sewing pattern
Pleat dress sewing pattern - winter option
Dovetail pleat dress sewing pattern for winter
Winter dress sewing pattern for women
Dovetail dress sewing pattern in winter weight fabric
Pleat dress sewing pattern for women - sleeve option
Dovetail Dress
Dovetail Dress
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Load image into Gallery viewer, Dovetail Dress
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Dovetail Dress

Regular price $18.50

Unit price per 

Size

An “all season” maxi style dress with designer centre front pleat & optional back pleat.

The long pleats fall down the centre lines of the dress, creating strong vertical lines that flatter.  This is particularly effective with the sleeveless version. The design allows plenty of movement and can be worn on it's own or with a fitted top underneath for cooler temperatures.

Choose your fabric for the season. Mix and match sleeves and your choice of back for a range of different looks.  The Dovetail dress is a versatile and modern classic that won't date.

 PATTERN FEATURES:

  • Pleated front
  • 2 dress back options (pleat or plain)
  • Maxi or knee length
  • Internal side pockets
  • Flattering V neck
  • 3 sleeve options (sleeveless, short or 3/4) 
  • Modern classic style.
  • Sizes NZ/AU 6-24 | US 2-20 (purchased in size bundles of 4)-refer purchasing options

 

Share your makes on Instagram & Facebook tagging #TSRDovetailDress and @thesewingrevival

FABRIC

MID WEIGHT WOVEN fabrics that press well to maximise the featured pleats :
We highly recommend 100% cotton (broadcloth), linen or woven woollen suiting.

Refer product images for examples of fabric we've used.

DIFFICULTY

EASY INTERMEDIATE

Learn how to sew a featured pleat.

SIZE & FITTING

The Dovetail dress is designed to fit comfortably around your chest and loosely around your middle. The long pleats fall down the front and back centre lines, creating strong vertical lines that flatter.  This is particularly so with the sleeveless version. The design allows plenty of movement and can be worn on it's own or with a fitted top underneath for cooler temperatures.

Each purchase comes with 4 sizes (please refer to the last image for size chart and international size comparisons):

Small - (NZ/AU/UK 6-8-10-12  | US 2-4-6-8)                    
Medium - (NZ/AU/UK 10-12-14-16  | US 6-8-10-12)       
Large - (NZ/AU/UK 14-16-18-20  | US 10-12-14-16)        
X-Large - (NZ/AU/UK 18-20-22-24  | US 14-16-18-20)    

You can view our size chart here.

WHAT DO I GET WITH MY PURCHASE?

Please note you are purchasing a digital pattern that will be sent directly to your email inbox after payment. You can print this pattern at home on A4 or US letter-sized paper or take it to a print shop for large scale printing (AO size). *You will not receive a hard copy printed pattern.*

Instant download available immediately after checkout includes:

1. Instructions

2. PAH Pattern file (PAH=Print at home)
For printing in A4 or US Letter on a home printer. Printing at home is the most cost-effective, and sticking your pattern tiles together to make your full size pattern is easy. Further information for printing at home can be found in our Resources section here. 

3. AO Pattern file
AO is a large scale file designed to be printed at a Print Copy Shop. You cannot print this on your home printer as it is too big. If you choose to use this large file you will pay extra to have it printed but you do not have to stick anything together. Further information for printing in large scale can be found in our Resources section here. 

You can use the ADOBE LAYERS FEATURE to open the PAH pattern file and print only the size you need (and eliminate the "noise" of the unwanted sizes). You can also use the URL and bookmark links within the file to quickly access information and support. Download Adobe Reader for free (for Windows and Mac) here.

STYLING IDEAS

The silhouette of the sleeveless Dovetail Dress is very flattering as it visually thins and lengthens the body. Whilst we offer a sleeved option, our favourite styling technique is to layer up (or under) the sleeveless version (pleated or non pleated back).

The Dovetail dress works beautifully layered with the Undercover Top in short or long sleeves. We've used a short sleeve version of this sewn in a tulle for warmer weather - a great alternative to the sleeved dress.

A long sleeve undercover top in a cotton/elastane is also perfect for winter. We love this with a cropped jacket (think denim, or the cropped Mallard Coat).

The cropped edition of the Akaroa Sweater (we love this in merino wool ribbing or a lambswool) is also flattering and practical. 

Examples of all these styling options are included in the product pics. Enjoy the inspiration.

PRINTING

Each PDF sewing pattern comes with 4 sizes (please refer last 2 images for size chart and international size comparisons - hover over the image to magnify).

Small - (NZ/AU/UK 6-8-10-12  | US 2-4-6-8)                     AO 2 pg  | PAH** 46g**
Medium - (NZ/AU/UK 10-12-14-16  | US 6-8-10-12)        AO 2+1pg* | PAH 47pg**
Large - (NZ/AU/UK 14-16-18-20  | US 10-12-14-16)         AO 2+1pg* | PAH 52pg**
X-Large - (NZ/AU/UK 18-20-22-24  | US 14-16-18-20)      AO 2+1pg* | PAH 52pg**

**PAH = Print At Home. For help printing at home click here.
   You will not have to print all pages - you only need to print pieces needed for each style. This ranges from 27-38 pages depending on your size and the style you choose.

*AO= Large scale requiring a special printer. Note for View A you only need to print 2 AO pages. Add page 3 for View B back For help printing at a Copy Shop click here

Reviews

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Customer Reviews
4.8 Based on 19 Reviews
5 ★
89% 
17
4 ★
5% 
1
3 ★
5% 
1
2 ★
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Filter Reviews:
MS
04/25/2024
Martina S.
Germany Germany

ein lässig-elegantes Kleid mit toller Passform

Das Dovetail Kleid ist mein erstes Schnittmuster von Sewing Revival. Mir gefällt das lässig-elegante Design und so habe ich es in der ärmellosen Version mit glattem Rückteil aus einer Leinen-Viskose-Mischung für den Sommer genäht. Der Armausschnitt ist nicht zu tief und mit den Belegen super sauber verarbeitet. Einziger Kritikpunkt: Der Tascheneingriff könnte 2 cm größer sein. Ich bin absolut begeistert von diesem wunderschönen Kleid und werde mir sicher noch eine weitere Variante nähen. Erwähnen möchte ich auch den tollen Service: Ich habe versehentlich die falsche Größe bestellt und hatte zunächst Probleme mit dem Download. Sewing Revival hat das Schnittmuster sofort gegen die richtige Größe umgetauscht und Unterstützung beim Download habe ich auch bekommen.

MD
02/15/2024
Marcia D.
United Kingdom United Kingdom

Dovetail Dress

My second pattern from the Sewing Revival and another dream make from making the paper pattern to the final dress. It was simple to make and I'm delighted with the finish which is perfect for a family wedding. I made a UK size 12 and the longer, sleeveless version. The overall fit was good other than the arm hole gaped a bit so I needed to adjust that. I will definitely be making another!

The Sewing Revival Dovetail Dress Review
JG
01/25/2024
Jane G.
Australia Australia

Fabulous pattern

Loved making this dress. The instruction and videos were great and have resulted in a lovely versatile garment. I had never heard of the “burrito” method for facing. Love it!

The Sewing Revival Dovetail Dress Review
KM
01/21/2024
Kylie M.
Australia Australia

Excellent

Easy to download. Quite a good fit without adjustment . Will tweak a little for the next make. (Fba for a more tailored fit) . Made another dress for my sister- she loved it. Have now purchased another pattern(Nikau) and made two fabulous dresses with that also . Very happy

The Sewing Revival Dovetail Dress ReviewThe Sewing Revival Dovetail Dress Review
NM
12/04/2023
Nicola M.
New Zealand New Zealand

Style!

A fabulous pattern for taking advantage of the crispness of linen mix fabric. My Christmas Day dress sorted!

AM
09/24/2023
Amanda M.
United Kingdom United Kingdom

I thought I was getting a paper pattern

I couldn’t use it as it involved a computer, a printer and overly complicated instructions. I only have an iPad. Such a shame as I really like the pattern.

09/27/2023

The Sewing Revival

Hi Amanda, I do think your review is a little unfair. Firstly, we refunded your money without hesitation when you contacted us thinking it was a paper pattern. Secondly, we highlight on every single pattern listing under "What do I get with my purchase" tab that you are purchasing a PDF printable sewing pattern (even highlighting that you will not receive a paper pattern) AND the very first statement on the home page of our website clearly states "Printable sewing patterns, easy enough to ensure success & different enough to celebrate". Thirdly, when you receive the purchase confirmation, we yet again highlight that you have purchased a digital sewing pattern. You got a refund because you must have read this and did not download the files - which means your review is not of the pattern itself, more that you were dissappointed that it was not a paper pattern. The AO file provided is printable at most Print Shops - so you could have also taken this option.

CS
09/06/2023
Carly S.
United States United States

A Fun Patter than Comes together Quickly

I was pleasantly surprised how quickly and nicely this pattern came together. Even though there were several new techniques to me, the supplementary online content made everything very clear! I would buy more patterns from The Sewing Revival in a heart beat!

MM
08/16/2023
Mary M.
Australia Australia

Dovetail dress

Lovely flowing design and easy to sew.

C
05/17/2023
Carol
United States United States

Beautiful Dress!

I just finished my 1st Dovetail and I love it! It went together so smoothly and is VERY flattering. I made it from a quilting cotton as a test and like it so much I’ll be wearing it to a wedding this weekend. This is the 3rd Sewing Revival pattern I have made and all have been winners (though may be my favorite). THANK YOU!

LM
05/02/2023
Lorraine M.
New Zealand New Zealand

Lovely, easy sew.

Another fabulous, easy sew and I was thrilled with the result. I made the dress up in the Size 10 and it fits perfectly. I love the pockets and how the dress feels when I wear it. I’ll definitely be making more in this style. I’m thinking of maki g it in a heavier fabric next time so I can wear it pinafore style in the Winter over long sleeved tops.

The Sewing Revival Dovetail Dress Review
LV
01/15/2023
Linda v.
New Zealand New Zealand

I love my new Dovetail Dress !

Great pattern, easy to follow, true to size. I really liked the sausage roll technique for the sleeveless option- using the video support was helpful to get it right. Finished dress looks beautiful. Looking forward to making up a wool one for winter.

DW
12/11/2022
Donna W.
Australia Australia

Dovetail Dress

The instructions are very clear and concise. The dress shape is wonderful. My only comment is that the back armhole facing on the sleeveless version gaped.

The Sewing Revival Dovetail Dress Review
PL
11/16/2022
Pat L.
Australia Australia

Nice clean lines, comfortable to wear

Very happy with end result. Easy to follow instructions. Loved the Burrito method. Learnt new techniques

DM
10/09/2022
Debbie M.
New Zealand New Zealand

Brilliant patterns

Love patterns. Easy to print and put together. Great, easy to follow instructions

ES
09/22/2022
Elo S.
New Zealand New Zealand

Dovetail dress.

Love the dress. Easy to make and fit.

DT
09/22/2022
Deirdre T.
New Zealand New Zealand

Dove tail dress

Love this pattern

JT
09/20/2022
Jenni T.
New Zealand New Zealand

Hi it was very easy to use the pattern once I got it sorted and glued together I traced the pattern out and used the traced pattern to cut the dress out. Easy to sew and aim looking forward to wearing it when summer comes.

The Sewing Revival Dovetail Dress Review
JK
09/08/2022
Julie K.
Malaysia Malaysia

Thank you!

TSR made sewing the Dovetail dress for my 88yr old mum such a delightful experience. This is my first ever pleat and v-neck project so I was a bit nervous to start but all the tips and little notes were so helpful. Pattern was easy to assemble. What I don't know, I learnt it from your tips & tricks videos. Awesome pattern, hope my mum likes her new dress.

T
09/07/2022
Tracy
New Zealand New Zealand

Dovetail Dress

Lovely easy to sew dress, with nice pleat details front and back. Sleeve and materials choice will give many options for all seasons.

The Sewing Revival Dovetail Dress Review

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