Manila Bodycon Dress & Top

€8,99 €5,99

Made for Knits

With the Manila Criss-Cross bodycon dress sewing pattern, you will be able to create a curve-hugging bodycon dress or top with several variations in length and sleeve types. With its flattering criss-cross bust wrap and timeless turtleneck, your handmade garment will exude elegance and sophistication with a sexy edge.

This style has the following features:

  • Made exclusively for stretch fabric
  • Bodycon fit (very snug at hips, bust and waist)
  • Criss-cross bust and shoulder wraps
  • Nock turtleneck
  • 8 Possible variations (4 lengths, 2 sleeve lengths)

Upon purchase, you will receive an instant PDF download, including: the sewing pattern (available in layered A4, A0, US/Letter and Projector versions) and comprehensive written instructions including illustrations and video sewing lessons so you can get started with confidence!.

Upon purchase, you will receive a digital download link with lifetime access. It will give you access to two files:

  1. Printable pattern files: Print this pattern from home on A4 or US Letter Paper, use the A0 file format to have it printed at the copy-shop or use the Projector pattern with integrated scaling grids for calibration.
    All files are layered so you can print only the size you need.
  2. Complete sewing booklet with mini sewing lessons: You will receive comprehensive and easy-to-follow illustrated instructions and links to mini video tutorials that will guide you through each step of the sewing process.
€8,99 €5,99

Everything you need to know

Suitable Fabrics

This sewing pattern was designed for stretch fabrics with 40-50% stretch and full recovery. Best suited fabric options include: lightweight jersey for the summer (cotton or bamboo), semi-synthetic knits such as Tencel (Lyocell/Modal), and thicker knits for colder months such as ribbed knits, ponte/romanit, or scuba.

You can always use this Stretch Percentage to help determine whether your fabric is right for this project.

Yardage

Between 0.83m - 2.10m of stretch knit fabric (40-50% stretch) depending on your view of choice — check out the pictures for full yardage!

Seam Allowances

All seam allowances are included (0.7cm at seams, 1.5cm at hems)

Notions Needed

No notions needed.

Sewing Tools

Scissors, needles, twin-needle (optional), thread, pins, trick marker or chalk. Overlocker is completely optional.

What You'll Learn

With this pattern, and thanks to the in-depth explanations in the instructions booklet, you will learn to master the following techniques:

  • working with knits and stretch fabric
  • hemming knits with a zigzag stitch or twin needle
  • applying a mock turtleneck

Especially if you’re at the beginning of your sewing journey and/or aren’t confident with knits, this pattern will be a great entry into the world of knits and give you confidence to master more complex projects moving forward. 

The story behind this sewing pattern

I love clothes that are the perfect combination of comfy and eye-catching — that's the combination I had in mind when I designed the Manila pattern: business-appropriate turtleneck? Meet your new best friend: the cheeky diamond-shaped cutout!

Because it was conceived specially for stretch fabric, this bodycon dress sewing pattern makes for a snug yet comfy dress or top.

You will be able to sew up to 8 variations of this beautiful criss-cross design by playing with dress and sleeve length:

  • 4 lengths: crop top, regular top, mini dress or midi dress
  • 2 sleeve lengths: short cap sleeves and 3/4 sleeves

Your happy sewist guarantee

Get instant access, forever!

Get your PDF files right after checkout, and enjoy personal download library accessible 24/7, plus FREE pattern updates for life.

Print or project PDF files

Every pattern comes with A4, US Letter, A0, and projector files — all layered, so you can print or project only the sizes you need.

Sew with confidence

Each instruction booklet includes step-by-step illustrations, mini sewing-lessons, and tons of tips to help you get the perfect fit!