Easy to Sew, Gorgeous to Wear: The Holyoke Maxi Dress
I absolutely loved sewing the Holyoke Maxi Dress! From start to finish, this pattern was a joy to work with. The instructions are clear and beginner-friendly, and the construction is straightforward with smart design details—like princess seams and an elastic back—that make fitting easy and comfortable without sacrificing style.
The final result is stunning—flattering, flowy, and so wearable. I’ve already made two and am currently cutting my third one! Every time I wear a Holyoke, I get a ton of compliments. It’s one of those dresses that makes you feel confident and put together with minimal effort.
If you're looking for a satisfying project with a high-impact finish, I can’t recommend the Holyoke enough. It’s become a staple in my handmade wardrobe.
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@emsewhappy
The Perfect Maxi
I really love this dress from the making of it to wearing it. I followed the detailed toiling instructions which was great even for a person who has toiled before. The fit is great. I followed the suggestion from the sizing calculator which made it so much easier. I have made the size 10 bodice, C cup, graded to size 14 waist and graded back to 8 hips. Fabric is a poplin which makes the best summer dress. Can highly recommend this to anyone looking for a great maxi dress.
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Fairfax
Perfect fit
I made the Holyoke for my daughter with only her measurements. The completed garment fits her perfectly. The only change that I made was to put the right front over the left front instead of the pattern directions for left over right.
I used a large pucker seersucker which looks perfect in the finished dress. It swishes wonderfully - however you can't press it. I simply pressed the seams on the inside inside the seam allowance.
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Elodie Banana
In love
I absolutely love the fit of this dress which is amazing for big boobs! The amazing fit, the elastic waitband and the long flowy skirt also make it very comfortable and easy to wear in any situation. It is quite a long project but still easy for someone willing to take the time.
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Sheree Thomas
Love love love
This is the best fitting Princess seam dress pattern that I have ever sewn. It fits so perfectly and I can see myself making this dress over and over again. I paired the skirt with the Hampden bodic. I’m these photos but they fit similarly,
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Selina Waring
Amazing dress
I have made two dresses after a wearable toile top with peplum. The design is excellent, the top fits very well, with bra straps covered and straps that don't fall down. It is extremely comfortable and not constricted in away yet everything is safe and secure, even when leaning over!
Dress washes and irons very well important in a cotton summer dress.
The pattern and sew along were very clear as were the instructions for FBA in Ahead of the curve and tutorial on website. First time for me with princess seams, what a revelation! I can't believe the difference a well fitting dress makes.
The size calculator was a real bonus.
A very versatile design that can be dressed up I all manner of ways. I think I will make more of these!