It’s almost the time of the year when prom season begins! I love this time of the year because I enjoy looking at the new formal dress trends at the store. Even though it will be a while before prom season begins, it is the right time for anyone planning to sew their own prom dress to begin searching for patterns, fabric, sewing supplies, and to start sewing it.

I wanted to write a post about the prom dress appropriate patterns available for a few years, but never did. This year, I had some time to write posts for every pattern company I wanted to talk about. For the first post, I wanted to talk about Simplicity’s patterns.

All the patterns I chose for this post are either meant to make prom dresses or could make a formal dress that would be great for prom. Before purchasing any patterns for prom, please make sure the pattern will make a dress that will be dress code appropriate. Also, if you are unsure if the pattern will make a dress that will fit the wearer well, make a test version of the dress using a cheap fabric. That way you can make sure the pattern fits right and you won’t make a fitting mistake while sewing with the fashion fabric.

Also, this post does not include any patterns from the Spring 2022 collection.

8289

Simplicity describes pattern number 8289 as…

Whether you’re the bride, bridesmaid or attendee, these Leanne Marshall special occasion dresses are perfect for your next event. Dress features princess seam bodice with or without lace overlay with gallon lace back interest. Skirt can also be made with or without drapes in various lengths. Simplicity sewing pattern.

Even though this pattern is meant for a wedding, it would also make a great prom dress. There are three variations of the dress, including a shorter length dress. If you are looking for a formal dress pattern that is more modest yet modern, then this pattern is worth a look.

 

1195

Simplicity’s website describes the pattern as…

Misses’ Sew Stylish dress can be made floor length with bodice and skirt overlays, knee length with straps, and sleeveless about the knee or high-low with contrasting yoke and skirt overlay. Simplicity sewing pattern.

If you are looking for a pattern with a simple design, this pattern would be a great option. Also, you can add embellishments such as appliqued lace or sequins to the dress to make it more unique.

 

S9286

Simplicity’s website describes the pattern as…

Sleeveless dress has close-fitting, lined bodice, wide waistband, bateau neckline & fold-back contrast facings. A: flared skirt (cut on crosswise grain of fabric) & petticoat. B: straight skirt.

This pattern is part of Simplicity’s Patterns by Gertie line. Patterns by Gertie is a line of patterns that are inspired by vintage clothing. Not everyone likes vintage inspired prom dresses, but if you or someone you know does, this could be a great pattern for them. I like this pattern because it can make dresses with two different skirts (One flared skirt and one straight) and a petticoat for the flared skirt. You can use a purchased petticoat for the flared skirt version of the dress, but if you want to make the petticoat yourself, this pattern includes a pattern to make one.

 

S9289

Simplicity’s website describes the pattern as…

Fitted, strapless dress has fully underlined, boned, lined bodice with pleats at bust, front & back darts & back zipper. Train has band, hooks & thread eyes & train lining. A: border print. A, B: belt with purchased prong buckle.

This pattern is also from the Patterns by Gertie line of patterns. I really love this pattern because it is similar to popular prom dresses with a skirt or romper and a long skirt over it. It looks more like a dress Audrey Hepburn wore in the movie Sabrina, but I still think it would make a great prom dress. Especially for someone who wants a vintage dress or wants a dress inspired by Audrey Hepburn but isn’t from Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

 

8330

Simplicity’s website describes the pattern as…

Arrive at your next special occasion in a gorgeous open back mermaid style gown or choose a classic little black dress. This pattern is versatile enough to give you both looks. The sleeveless halter dresses can be made short, long with a leg slit, or with a mermaid tail of tulle. Dresses features an invisible zipper and a button and loop closure on the neck band. Simplicity sewing pattern.

The dresses would make great prom dresses, but make sure you understand the kind of fabric the dresses are going to be made out of. The dresses look like they could be made out of knit fabric, but it is actually made out of woven fabrics such as satin, taffeta, and brocades.

 

8598

Simplicity’s website describes the pattern as…

Mix and match your prom or special occasion look with these tops and corsets sized for Misses 8 – 16 and Women 18W – 26W. Silhouettes includes crop top with sheer or open back options, corsets with front slit, spaghetti strap or peplum, all with boning and an off-the-shoulder ruffle to be worn as an overlay.

This pattern is one of two patterns designed to be for formal occasions such as prom. The best part about this pattern is it comes in plus sizes.

 

8597

Simplicity’s website describes the pattern as…

Mix and match your prom or special occasion look with these skirts sized for Misses 8 – 16 and Women 18W – 26W. Silhouettes include fishtail with and without train, mermaid with optional back flounce. All views include flattering princess seams. Great for floral, embellished, and 3-D fabrics.

8597 is the companion pattern of 8598. It also comes in plus sizes.

 

8328

Simplicity’s website describes the pattern as…

Create endless mix-and-match options for any special event. Misses’ SewStylish 2-piece dress pattern from Simplicity offers skirts in two lengths and three different top options. Pair a halter top, sleeveless top or long sleeve top with a long skirt or a short skirt and get the right fit top to bottom.

This pattern does not come in as many sizes as the previous two, but it does make a dress style that has been popular for prom dresses for many years. There is also a sew along video series about this pattern. You can watch them here…

Sew-along

 

Well, that’s all for now! Thank you for reading!

All pictures used in this post are from Simplicity’s website.