Maria Paula — Open Back Dress Pattern (PDF)
We found your new go-to dress for summer! Maria Paula looks effortlessly chic with just the right amount of sexy. The sleeveless bodice, softly gathered midi skirt and a sensual open back give this simple silhouette a certain luster that can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Crafted from our pure linen in earthy rust color, this dress looks so modern and feels good on the skin. It's such a warm color and compliments many skin tones.
You don't need to show a lot of skin to feel sexy and the Maria Paula dress is here to prove it. When you feel good about yourself and what you are wearing, especially if this something was handmade by you, it's going to reflect on the outside and make you look feminine and beautiful.
- Free print-at-home format on A4 paper
- Layered PDF to print just your size
- Most patterns graded in size 0/2 to 28/30
- Many have Step-by-step instructions on The Thread blog
- No licensing restrictions. Sew as many as you like
Pattern specifications:
| Type: | PDF Pattern |
| Skill Level: | Beginner |
| Design Variations: | |
| Sizes: | 0/2 to 12/14, 16/18 to 28/30 |
| Illustrations: | Yes |
| Instructions: | Yes |
Customer Questions and Answers
This is a great dress! I had to slightly overlap the bottom flaps of the bodice to make it lay a little flatter (and not gape open) due to the stiffness of the cotton I used. I tested it first with fabric I had on hand. I was afraid the armholes were too tight, but after adding the skirt it pulled them down and fit just right. I made a 4/6 and based that decision on the finished garment measurements because I was kind of in between the two sizes. The directions were clear and easy to follow. Only changes I made (other than using a cotton) were that I widened the belt by about 2 inches and used bias tape for the neck and armholes. I also finished the hem with a blind hem stitch rather than a straight stitch.
I used the beautiful Blue Bonnet MIDDLE softened linen to make this. I posted a picture down below and I mistakenly said that the belt in this pattern is too short. In fact, I had interpreted the instruction wrong. I am making a wide belt (using the pieces as back to back instead of folding it in half). Anyway, i love this dress. Added extra buttons on the back. The tutorials are great. I already want to make another one now!
Beautiful dress! Instructions were a bit chaotic to follow but only because I'm a newbie. Jumping from tutorial to tutorial was a bit confusing but not impossible! Thank you for these lovely free patterns. I will be buying my fabric from you for the next pattern!
The reviews saying there is no pattern just did not read the instructions on how to open it. It is very easy to access! Great pattern that is a fun quick make. Feel free to view a time lapse of my process here: instagram.com/p/B_0u9D9hrdc/ The reason I gave it four stars rather than five is the sizing felt off to me. I would recommend going based off of the finished garment measurements rather than the recommended sizing. I ended up taking mine in 8 inches after already doing the alterations I typically do.
Enjoyed sewing this lovely dress - techniques required were simple and nicely explained. I chose the pattern size based on the final garment measurements rather than my standard dress-size, which meant I went smaller than normal, but it worked well in this loose and summery fit.
This is a dressed up version, with a fancier bow tie and heels. I have also worn it as a casual beach dress. It's really versatile. The open back makes it very comfortable to wear for those of us who are broad. I was able to size down for a good fit. Easy to follow pattern instructions. It was satisfying that it came together so easily. I didn't have enough fabric but was able to make it work with two yards by making it shorter and a little less full. Also had to piece the sash which I made a bit wider.
Love this dress! Made from 3 pairs of linen pants that I upcycled. I really like the loose comfortable fit and perfect for an everyday dress. I made the size 0/2 without any changes. I only added another button at the back so that it does not gape too much.
This is a great dress! I made it out of 100% cotton decorator fabric, which I think is slightly heavier than the weight of the linen they recommend. I wanted to try the pattern with fabric I already had to see how it came together. I will make this again with their suggested linen. I had to slightly overlap the bottom flaps of the bodice to make it lay a little flatter (and not gape open) due to the stiffness of the cotton. I was afraid the armholes were too tight, but after adding the skirt it pulled them down and fit just right. I made a 4/6 and based that decision on the finished garment measurements because I was kind of in between the two sizes. The directions were clear and easy to follow. Only changes (other than using a cotton) were that I widened the belt by about 2 inches and used bias tape for the neck and armholes. I also finished the hem with a blind hem stitch rather than a straight stitch.
Such a fun project! I have to add extra buttons as the bra is showing on the back. I used Blue Bonnet 100% linen softened Middle from this store, it's perfect. The belt on the pattern is too short. Just so ppl are aware, one should measure own waist and cut length accordingly.
Modified back side by adding buttons and made folds along the waistline instead of gathering
RETURNS & PRINTING INFO
We're proud to share our patterns without licensing restrictions. You may use our patterns to sew for personal use or for your business. For paid digital patterns, we do not offer returns. Please make sure to ask any questions you may have before purchasing a digital pattern.
Please read: Our patterns are formatted to work reliably across all devices that run Adobe Acrobat Reader applications. Each patterns comes with detailed printing instructions on terms of use. If you have any questions, e-mail us at ask@fabrics-store.com and our pattern makers will reply to you as quickly as possible.
SKILL LEVELS EXPLAINED
Beginner - Can sew simple straight & curved seams, some topstitching. Includes crafty-type projects and garments that do not require complex sewing techniques or closures.
Confident Beginner - Has sewn a few simple projects and is ready to learn more. Includes techniques such as set-in sleeves, inseam pockets, patch pockets, generous topstitching.
Advanced Beginner - Eager to continue building skills with new techniques such as zippers, buttons & buttonholes, tailored collars & cuffs.
Intermediate - Comfortable with projects that include multiple techniques such as pleating, yokes, fly zipper, slant pockets, and tailored waistband.
Advanced - Confident with complex, multi-step construction such as welt pockets and unusual details. Enjoys the challenge of new techniques and designer quality.
Maria Paula
*If prewashing in hot water, you may need up to extra 10% fabric due to shrinkage. ALL SEAM ALLOWANCES ARE INCLUDED AND NOTED ON THE PATTERN AND IN THE TUTORIAL.
*If prewashing in hot water, you may need up to extra 10% fabric due to shrinkage. ALL SEAM ALLOWANCES ARE INCLUDED AND NOTED ON THE PATTERN AND IN THE TUTORIAL.
CUSTOMER CARE
PHONE
1 866 620 2008
Call us Monday through Friday 10 am - 6 pm PST
CUSTOMER SUPPORT
Enter the e-mail address associated with your Fabrics-store.com account:
Temporary password has been emailed
Temporary password has been emailed to ivan@ecwm.com, and should arrive shortly. If you have any questions or problems, please contact our customer care center at 1-866-620-2008.
SIGN UP TO GET $15 OFF YOUR FIRST ORDER!
Your account has been disabled. If you believe this to be a mistake, please call our customer service at 1-866-620-2008 and we will help you with your order. We appreciate your cooperation.
Web Accessibility Toolbar
Font Resize: