Meet the Skye Sundress Sewing Pattern
Looking for the perfect summer dress sewing pattern? Meet Skye – an easy-to-wear sundress designed for sunny days, holidays and everything in between.
With an empire waist, three skirt lengths and optional tie straps, Skye combines timeless style with practical details you'll appreciate every time you wear it. Whether you're sewing a breezy mini dress for everyday adventures or a swishy maxi for summer evenings, it's the kind of pattern you'll reach for year after year.
Designed for confident beginners, Skye includes Tilly and the Buttons' signature photo-rich instructions to guide you through every step of the sewing process.
Available as a PDF sewing pattern in 15 sizes (UK 6–34 / US 2–30 / EUR 34–62 / AUS 6–34).
Skye sewing pattern design details
Here's what makes Skye such a versatile addition to your handmade wardrobe:
- Easy-fitting empire waist bodice
- Bust pleats for gentle shaping
- Scoop neckline designed to cover a bra
- Bias binding finish on the neckline and armholes
- Optional faux ties on the straps
- Choice of mini, knee-length or maxi skirt
- Deep in-seam pockets
- Optional bra stays for extra security
- Award-winning photo instructions to guide you every step of the way
The beauty of Skye is its simplicity. It's comfortable enough for everyday wear, but with enough thoughtful details to feel special every time you put it on.
Skye sewing pattern sizes and formats
The Skye sewing pattern is available as a PDF download and includes:
- Single-layer PDF files – All sizes are included on one sheet (sizes cannot be hidden).
- A4/Letter file to print at home
- A0 copyshop file
Learn how to use digital sewing patterns with our complete guide.
The pattern includes 15 sizes:
UK 6–34 / US 2–30 / EUR 34–62 / AUS 6–34
Like all Tilly and the Buttons patterns, Skye includes detailed step-by-step instructions with colour photographs throughout.
If you'd prefer a printed copy, you may also find remaining stock through some of our wonderful stockists.
Best fabrics for the Skye sewing pattern
One of the things I love most about Skye is how different it can look depending on the fabric you choose.
For a more structured silhouette, try:
- Cotton poplin
- Seersucker
- Linen
- Linen blends
These fabrics work particularly well for the mini-length version and help create a crisp, summery shape.
For a softer, floatier look, choose fabrics with more drape, such as:
- Viscose (rayon)
- Lyocell (Tencel)
- Viscose-linen blends
- Silk crepe de chine
- Polyester crepe de chine
These fabrics are gorgeous for the knee-length and maxi versions, adding plenty of movement and swoosh.
What supplies do you need to sew Skye?
Alongside your fabric, you'll need:
- Matching thread
- 10–13mm (3/8–1/2in) single fold bias binding, or fabric to make your own
- Iron-on stay tape or lightweight interfacing strips (recommended for drapey fabrics)
Optional extras:
- Two small sew-on snaps if you'd like to add bra stays
You can find the full fabric requirements and notions list on the Skye product page.
Is the Skye sewing pattern beginner-friendly?
Skye is designed for confident beginners.
If you've already sewn a couple of simple garments and are ready to learn a few new skills, Skye is a fantastic next project.
Along the way you'll practise:
- Sewing bias binding
- Gathering fabric
- Understitching
- Sewing pockets
- Creating a neat neckline finish
Don't worry if some of those techniques are new to you. The instructions walk you through every step, and we've also created additional tutorials to help.
Share your Skye makes
We LOVE seeing your handmade creations.
If you sew a Skye sundress, share it on Instagram by tagging @TillyButtons and using #SewingSkye so we can admire your work.
Whether you make a breezy mini, an everyday midi or a dramatic maxi, we can't wait to see your version.
