Button front sundresses are all the rage right now! It seems like everyone has a pattern for them everywhere I look. It turns out that making a button front dress from Love Pattern #9 needs only ONE pattern modification. I always like to see if I can make a small modification to an existing pattern before I buy a new one.
You already know what a great fit Love Pattern #9 (buy here) is, so why not use it to make a new style?
Get ready!
Just add 1″ to the front of the pattern. Seriously, that’s that only pattern modification you need!
The easiest one is the straight front, but it can be done with the V and the Sweetheart as well. Draw a line 1″ over just like above, but then blend the curve like below
Now, you’ll cut two front main mirrored and two front lining mirrored.
All other pieces are cut as directed.
The construction is a bit different, but I’ll show you how.
Instead of sewing straight across the front like shown in step 6 (Love Pattern #9) or step 11 (Love Pattern #9.2), you’ll sew down the front like below in order to enclose your raw edges. Finish constructing the bodice according to the directions.
You’ll want to also cut placket pieces for your skirt. The placket is the same length as the skirt but it will be 1″ wide.
To construct the skirt start by cutting one in half down the fold to make two skirt fronts. Then sew it together and hem the bottom according to the directions (add in seam pockets now if you want them)
Iron interfacing to the wrong side of the placket. Fold one edge of the placket over 1/4” and press. Repeat for other placket.
Right sides together, pin and sew the placket to the skirt using a 1/4” seam allowance. Line up the top of the placket with the top of the skirt. There will be some overhang at the bottom. Press the placket to the center. Repeat for other pieces.
Fold the bottom of the placket up to match the hemline and press. Repeat for other piece.
Fold the placket over along the stitch line to the inside of the skirt and edge stitch right along the fold edge. Repeat for other piece. This makes a 1/2″ wide placket and will accommodate 3/8″ or smaller buttons. The front will overlap 1/2″
Now gather the skirt and sew it to bodice, throw on some buttons and buttonholes, and rock your new dress with confidence, like this little lady!
Duchess and Hare 
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