Paper Bag Tie-Strap Dress in European Linen

January 5, 2019

Our linen range has been flying out the door and nothing beats wearing a natural linen sundress in summer. This slip-on dress was a special request from my daughter Gabby after she spotted our latest washed European linen collection. She quickly chose these colours – Turmeric (sold out, but see our Bedford Turmeric for similar) and Dusty Pink (sold out, but similar to our Bedford Blush) for this cute paper bag tie strap sundress. She slips it on when heading out to the beach and has had many requests from friends and passers by.

No pattern was used. It’s simply rectangle pieces cut for the body (front and back), hem panels (front and back) and tie straps, with in-seam side pockets added. The front and back body panels are turned back 2.5″/6.5cm at the top edge, stitched down 1″/2.5cm from folded top edge to create the 1″/2.5cm frill above elastic tunnel. Then, just neaten the bottom edge and stitch  3/4″/2cm down from stitching line at bottom of frill for elastic tunnel.

The only pattern piece that needed some minor adjustment was the front body. More length (approx 2.5″ or 6.5cm ) was added at the hem (at centre front) and blended smoothly to curve back at the side seams.

This allows for bust shaping and an even hemline. If you don’t do this the hem pulls up at the front. Note that depending on your bust size, this amount will vary so best to test this on your body with a toile first. This dress is definitely suited for the smaller busted ladies and equally gorgeous for childrenswear.

Note: the finished measurements for:

  • Front/Back Body Panel measure 35.5″/90cm x desired length – cut 2 – (total circumference around body is 71″/180cm)
  • Hem Panel measures 35.5″/90cm x desired length – cut 2
  • Tie straps measure 23.5″/60cm x 1″/2.5cm/  or 23.5″ x 1″ – cut 4

This style can also be easily midfield into a top.