Best of 2022: Lotta Dress

Easy to make, with no fiddly bits, Lotta is a perfect dressmaking project for beginners, or a satisfyingly speedy sew for more experienced stitchers. It has a blousy bodice and flared skirt, cinched in with a narrow elasticated waistline.

Choose between knee-length or midi-length skirt, with grown-on short sleeves or bracelet-length drop shoulder sleeves, with optional deep patch pockets. To make it even more versatile, you can make this dress in either woven fabric or stretchy jersey.

Pattern: Lotta Dress from Tilly and the Buttons

Skill Level: Beginner

What you should know (or desire to learn) Inserting elastic, attaching a facing

Fabric: Hilma Painted Flowers Viscose Twill

If you look closely at this fabric, what seems like a wild, abstract line print is actually a bold, modern floral with blush pink and ochre blooms all across the surface. Modern and unexpected, this print is a sight to see. Plus the ecovero twill is silky soft, with a flowing drape and light weight, perfect for the late summer heat!

Also in this box: Matching thread, elastic, and a sewing machine needle