Designed by Stefanie: Mixed Print Robe Dress

I am forever on my quest to change my wardrobe to outfits that allow me to live my best life. That means being comfortable but still head turning, deceptively put together, and functional enough for whatever travel I have and events I need to attend.

It’s pretty hard to think about a dress that takes you from day care drop off to work, to brunch with the girls to playtime, to an afternoon walk to dinner…. that isn’t a basic black shift dress. That’s just not my style! I want to be bright and bold, but comfortable and not waste my time changing 3x a day.

So, I designed and created this mixed print robe dress as the perfect counterpoint to all my daily tasks. Instead of taking the hubs to work in my fluffy bathrobe, now I can put on my go-to robe dress! It still has the same functional style, pockets and that cozy collar that makes you want to snuggle a cup of coffee. It provides the right amount of coverage and shape to balance femininity with practicality! I keep hair simple because my dress does all the talking, and the shape of the dress begs for flats. Sneakers, sandals and chic mules are the way to rock this look all day long, whether you are throwing it on after the gym, heading from airplane to business meeting, or hanging with kids at home.

How to Make this Dress Yourself

If you want to make this dress yourself, follow along with my YouTube channel to learn how to make your own patterns that fit you perfectly! This particular dress would require basic draping of the bodice and skirt, and some flatpatternmaking understanding.

How to Drape a Basic Bodice

How to Drape a Basic Pencil Skirt

Fundamentals of Patternmaking

How to Pattern 3 Different Designer Sleeves

If you are looking to alter a similar commercial pattern I found a few that might easily be adjusted below. All of the fabric and trims are from Stonemountain & Daughter Fabrics, and I recommend choosing mid weight or stiffer fabrics so that the dress gives you a cozy feel and weighs the ruffle down. Too light of fabric and you are blowing everywhere!