A Sweet Summer Dress — Simple Sewing for Little Ones

There’s just something timeless and special about a handmade dress for a little girl. Whether it's for a picnic, a birthday, or just because—there’s so much love stitched into each seam. And if you're like me, you want simple projects that don’t take forever but still have that "oh my goodness, did you make that?" charm.

Today I’m sharing the pattern and steps for a Sweet Summer Dress that’s perfect for beginners, quick to whip up in an afternoon, and absolutely adorable. This little number is designed for toddlers and kids ages 2T–6, and it’s one of those pieces that feels a little bit vintage, a little bit cottagecore, and a whole lot of heart.

Whether you're sewing for your daughter, granddaughter, niece, or a friend’s little one, this is one of those go-to patterns you'll want to make again and again.

✂️ What You’ll Need for the dress:

• 1 yard of lightweight cotton or linen fabric (more for larger sizes)

• 1/4 yard of coordinating fabric for the straps and ruffle (optional)

• 1/4" elastic (for panels)

• Coordinating thread

• Basic sewing supplies (scissors, clips (or pins), sewing machine, iron)

🧵 Sewing Instructions:

1. Cut Your Pieces:

• Front & back rectangles:

  • 2T–3T: 11” wide x 15” tall

  • 4T–5T: 12.5” wide x 17” tall

  • 6: 13.5” wide x 19” tall

• Ruffle strip: 3" x 30–36"

• Straps: 2 strips 2" x 18"

2. Sew the Bodice: With right sides together, sew the side seams of front and back rectangles. Press seams open.

3. Add the Elastic: Fold the top edge of the front and back down 1/4", then again about 1/2". Stitch to create a casing and insert elastic. Stitch ends in place.

4. Create the Straps: Fold long edges of each strap toward the center, then in half again. Stitch along the open edge. Attach to the top front of the dress.

• Option 1: Leave loose to tie at the shoulders.

• Option 2: Crisscross and stitch to back of bodice.

5. Gather & Attach the Skirt : To add the ruffle, sew gathering stitches along one long edge of the ruffle strip. Pin and sew to the bottom edge of the dress.

6. Hem the Dress: Fold the bottom edge under 1/4", then again 1/2". Stitch to hem. Press the whole dress.

🧡 That’s it!

You’ve made the sweetest little dress. It’s perfect for playtime, pictures, or warm weather twirling. If you make one, tag @LambAndOak or share in the comments—I’d love to see your creations!

I hope this little project brings joy to your sewing table and to the little one who gets to wear it. If you make one, I’d love to see! Tag me on Instagram or drop a picture in the comments. 💛

Happy Making,

XO, Marie