Tiered Midi Dress with PDF Pattern and Video Tutorial

In this post, you will learn how to sew tiered midi dress with free PDF pattern and video tutorial.

Dive into the world of dressmaking with my easy-to-follow tiered midi dress tutorial. Whether you’re a novice or seasoned sewer, this guide is designed to make sewing a midi dress with pockets a breeze. With ruffle straps adding a touch of elegance and pockets for practicality, this comfortable dress is a must-have in any wardrobe.

Included in this post is a free dress pattern PDF that simplifies the process, accompanied by a video guide for dress making. So grab your materials, and let’s get started on creating a dress that’s as functional as it is fashionable. Perfect for those looking for a DIY midi dress project, this step by step dress sewing guide will ensure your success. Stay tuned for a rewarding sewing adventure!

What is Tiered Dress

A tiered dress is characterized by having multiple overlapping layers, often of varying lengths, which create a series of different hemlines on the skirt part of the dress. These layers can add volume and dimension to the dress, making it a flattering choice for various body types. The style is versatile and can be made from different fabrics, suitable for both casual and formal occasions. Tiered dresses have been a part of fashion history since the Victorian era and continue to be popular today for their elegant and playful design.

Materials & Tools Needed:

• A sewing machine, you’ll need a sewing machine that can handle different types of stitches, such as straight, zigzag, or overlock.
• Thread , learn more on threads
• Scissors. learn more on using scissors
• Pins
• Measuring tape
• Seam ripper, learn how to use it here.
• Iron and ironboard
• PDF pattern for tiered midi dress
• Main fabrics, read more on fabrics here

You will also need a magnetic seam guide or a magnet to help you sew evenly.

Suggested Fabric

Top can be made from light and medium weight non stretchy fabrics flowy ones such as cotton voile, chiffon, or lightweight linen for a soft and ethereal look.. This tiered dress requires 3 meters of main fabric.

Check out my detailed post on what fabrics are the best as lining.

Learn more on non stretch fabrics and choose best for this project.

Sizing Instructions

Tools and materials you need for measuring yourself

• A measuring tape
• A notebook and a pencil
• A mirror
• A friend or a helper (optional, but recommended)

To choose the best size , you need to measure your :

• Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your chest.

You may now utilize the size chart provided below to compare your measurements and choose the most suitable option. In case your measurement falls between two sizes, you have the flexibility to select the fit that suits your preference, whether it be slightly loose or fitted. Additionally, if necessary, you can make adjustments to the pattern to ensure it aligns with your true size.

Size Chart

According to your measurements, you can check the size chart to find the best size for you.

Free PDF Pattern For Tiered Midi Dress

sewing pattern that’s completely free for my subscribers! It’s at the end of the post.

Create your own unique dress by customizing the bottom part. You have the freedom to choose the number of tiers and your preferred length.

Printing and Assembling Instructions

Check out my detailed posts on how to print, cut-out, and assemble PDF patterns.

How to print and assemble free PDF patterns

How to cut out sewing patterns with tips and tools

Seam Allowance

For this project, I recommend adding 1 cm | 0.4 in of seam allowance to all the edges of the top pattern pieces. This will give you enough room to stitch the seams without compromising the fit.

You can use a ruler or a tape measure to mark the seam allowance on your fabric. Alternatively, you can use a special sewing tool called a seam gauge, which has markings for different seam allowances.

Adding seam allowance is a simple but essential step in sewing. It will ensure that your top turns out the right size and shape. 

For ruffle part you don’t any seam allowance.

Learn more:

How to add seam allowance in sewing

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Sewing a Tiered Midi Dress with Pockets

Follow this detailed guide to sew your own stylish dress.

Step 1: Cutting Pattern Elements

Cut Your Fabric:

Carefully cut out each pattern piece from your chosen fabric. Ensure you follow the grainline for the best drape.

Step 2 : Sewing the Bodice

Pin and Sew Bust Darts:

Pin the bust darts in place and sew them to create shape in the bodice.

Learn how to sew bust darts for beginners here

Assemble the Bodice:

With right sides together, pin the back bodice piece to the front bodice piece at the sides and sew.

Sew the Straps:

You can use my free pattern for ruffle shoulder straps or draw them yourself.

Sew the straps.

Learn here how to sew ruffle shoulder straps step by step.

Cut and Sew the Lining:

Cut the lining pieces and sew them together.

Attach the Straps and Neckline Facing:

With right sides together, attach the straps and neckline facing to the top of the bodice. Sew them in place.

Trim and Turn Right Side Out:

Trim any excess fabric at the curved edges and turn the bodice right side out.

Step 3: Cutting and Sewing Tiers

Love the tiered skirt but want a separate maxi version? I also created a four-tier maxi skirt pattern with lining and pockets.

1. Calculate Ruffle Width:
   • Hips Measurement x 2 or 1.5:
     • Example for One Tier:
       • Fuller skirt: If hips measure 98 cm (38.6 inches), multiply by 2 (98 cm x 2 = 196 cm or 77.2 inches)
       • Less volume: Multiply by 1.5 (98 cm x 1.5 = 147 cm or 57.9 inches)
2. Calculate Multiple Tiers:
   • Two Tiers:
     • First tier: 98 cm x 1.5 = 147 cm (57.9 inches)
     • Second tier: 147 cm x 1.5 = 220 cm (86.6 inches)
   • Three Tiers:
     • First tier: 98 cm x 1.5 = 147 cm (57.9 inches)
     • Second tier: 147 cm x 1.5 = 220 cm (86.6 inches)
     • Third tier: 220 cm x 1.5 = 330 cm (129.9 inches)
3. Choose Ruffle Length: Decide the length of each ruffle tier. For example, you might choose 25 cm (9.8 inches).
4. Cut Ruffles: Using your measurements or my tiered skirt pattern, cut out the ruffles.

Read on fabric gathering, all tips and tricks here

Love the gathered tiered skirt but prefer separates? My four-tier maxi skirt with lining and pockets uses the same soft, flowing idea in a versatile pull-on skirt with a free PDF pattern in 10 sizes.

Step 4: Sewing the Dress

Attach Pockets:

Optionally, attach pockets to the sides of the dress. Place them at a comfortable height for your hands.

Check out this detailed post on how to sew and attach inseam pockets here.

Pin the Ruffles Together:

With right sides together, pin the ruffles to each other and sew.

Attach the Top to the Skirt:

Pin the bodice to the top of the skirt and sew them together, ensuring the seams align properly.

Optional Ties:

Add ties to the sides for a customizable fit.

Hemming

Don’t forget to hem your tiered midi dress. It’s a crucial step and a valuable sewing skill to acquire.

How to hem dress detailed post.

Watch the Video Tutorial

Want to see how I made this amazing dress? Head over to my YouTube channel to watch the tutorial! I’ll walk you through sewing a tiered midi dress and share some helpful tips and tricks.

You can watch the video here.

Make sure to give a thumbs up, leave a comment, and hit that subscribe button on my channel to get more sewing tutorials. And if you decide to make this tiered midi dress, don’t forget to share it with me on Instagram or Facebook. I’m really excited to see what you come up with!

How to Style Tiered Midi Dress

Styling a tiered midi dress can be both fun and fashionable. Here are some tips to help you create a stunning look:

Night Out: 

Add some glamour to your tiered midi dress with a pair of high heels and statement jewelry. A clutch and a sleek blazer or faux fur coat can elevate the look, making it perfect for a night out on the town.

Date Night: 

For a romantic date night, opt for soft, feminine accessories. A pair of strappy sandals, delicate jewelry, and a light shawl or cardigan will create an enchanting ensemble. Don’t forget a stylish handbag to complete the look.

Casual Outing: 

Keep it laid-back and comfortable for casual outings. Pair your dress with sneakers or flat sandals, a denim jacket, and minimal jewelry. A crossbody bag adds practicality without sacrificing style.

Work Attire: 

To make your tiered midi dress work-appropriate, team it with a fitted blazer, modest heels, and simple accessories. A tote bag can carry all your essentials while maintaining a professional vibe.

Beach Day: 

Embrace the breezy nature of the dress for a beach day by wearing it with flip-flops or espadrilles, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. A tote bag for your beach essentials will be both functional and fashionable.

Festival Chic: 

For a boho festival look, accessorize with ankle boots, a wide belt, layered necklaces, and a floppy hat. A fringe bag and sunglasses will add to the free-spirited vibe.

Remember, the key to styling is to adapt the outfit to suit the occasion while letting your personal style shine through.

Wrapping Up: Your Journey to a Handmade Tiered Midi Dress

As we wrap up this guide, I hope it inspires and equips you to embark on this rewarding sewing project. Follow my step-by-step instructions, use the free PDF pattern, and watch the supportive video tutorial to confidently craft a stylish and comfortable dress, even if you’re a beginner.

Remember, the beauty of sewing lies not only in the final product but also in the creativity and joy each stitch brings. Take pride in wearing your DIY midi dress, crafted with your own hands, adorned with ruffles and pockets you made. Continue to experiment, learn, and most importantly, create. Until we meet again, happy sewing!

In this post, you have learned how to sew tiered midi dress with ruffle shoulder straps and pockets.

Free Ruffle Dress Sewing Pattern