Choosing your pattern size is the most important step and we will help you determine this with these easy to follow steps.
- When taking your measurements ensure that you take them against your skin and not over clothing. One can wear a comfortable bra and knickers whilst measuring, as this will provide you with the most accurate measurements.
- Tape measure has to sit firmly around the points you are measuring. But be careful not to pull it too tight, as this will give you the incorrect size.
- When measuring circumferences (B, C, D, E) it is important to note that the tape measure must remain parallel to the floor. It is sometimes best to take the measurements in front of a mirror; this will help you see the angle of the tape measure.
- You will only require the basic body measurements to determine your pattern size which is indicated on our mannequin below:
A. Shoulder Breadth
Place the tape at the edge of the shoulder. Measure along the top of the shoulder blade/across the highest point of the shoulders to the other edge, following the natural slope and allow an extra finger for ease of any movement.
B. Upper Arm Girth
This point is taken as a circumference at your widest point of your upper arm.
C. Bust
This point is taken as a circumference parallel to the floor at the fullest part of your chest.
D. Waist
This point is taken as a circumference and taken at the smallest part of your waist.
E. Hip
This point is taken as a circumference parallel to the floor at the widest part of your hips.
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Single-Size
w************4 (verified owner) – :
Loved the look of this dress and the pattern worked really well. Have made it in a muted yellow and white spot pattern and it looks good with a light blue denim jacket.
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Single-Size
d***********h (verified owner) – :
I’m really happy with this lovely dress. I made it in a rayon print and used mother of pearl buttons. The V neck sits really well and does not gape, although the V looks low in the line drawings the overlap keeps everything covered. I joined the back bodice and skirt to the midriff piece before shirring and that was much easier. Thanks Style Arc, I love it
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Single-Size
m**************3 (verified owner) – :
Fantastic dress patter! Really caught my eye with some wonderful detailing of shirring and buttons!
Cannot wait to wear this dress out!
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
S*e (verified owner) – :
Just finished a Belle in a Rayon. Came together well. The methods shown gave a very professional finish and I was very happy with the finished article. What I did have difficulties with was the shirring – my machine was not easy to adjust -is there a standard amount of gathering? 1eg: 12 inch fabric equals 6 gathered.
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
J*****a (verified owner) – :
I just finished my second Belle and want to make a third:). It’s both fun to sew and gorgeous to wear. Made zero alterations to the fit, which rarely happens. Worth every penny.