Sewing Patterns for Black Tie & Black Tie Optional Wedding Guest Attire

It's summer wedding season! Attending a black-tie or black-tie optional wedding is a special occasion that calls for elegance and sophistication in every detail, including your attire! While many turn to ready-made options, crafting your own outfit allows for a perfect blend of personal style and a great fit. In this blog post, we'll explore a curated selection of sewing patterns ideal for creating stunning black-tie wedding guest attire (perfect for black-tie optional too!). Whether you're envisioning a timeless gown, a more modest look, or a big sleeve moment, these patterns offer the foundation for your look!

Vogue: Misses' and Misses' Petite Dress by Tom and Linda Platt

I love long flowy dresses that move easily! This Vogue pattern could be perfect for an afternoon or early evening wedding! Make this in a deep jewel tone color for an evening wedding as well. Vogue patterns go on sale pretty regularly through their site as well as from Joann Fabrics, so you may have some options at getting a discount on this too!

Fabric Ideas

This dress will do great with Crepe. Linen Blends, or Rayon Challis! Check out some ideas below for it!

Maybe even a pretty silk could look gorgeous for this pattern!

Misses'/Miss Petite Dresses with Shoulder and Skirt Variations

I love the flexibility and options this pattern provides as you could make so many different variations from one pattern envelop! For black tie events you will want to stick with the full length gown, but that shorter one may be great for a semi-formal event too. This dress gives you some options for the back too. Prefer to show some more skin or want to have it covered, this pattern offers both! 

Fabric Ideas

This dress will do great with Two-way Stretch Knits (50% Cross Grain) like Jerseys, Novelty Knits, Interlock, Velvet Knits.! Check out some ideas below for it!

 

Misses' Slip Dress in Three Lengths (PDF)

Oh the slip dress! A classic design that depending on the length and fabric can be played up or down! This would be perfect for a black tie event with a nice darker color material, but then the pattern gives you the option of three different size lengths so you can use it again and again! Big bonus is that it's available as a PDF as well, so if needed you can print this out right at your home. 

Fabric Ideas

This dress will do great with Chambray, cotton, linen, and silky type materials. Check out some ideas below for it!

The Seraphina Cowl Neck Dress Free Sewing Pattern

Looking for more on the free pattern side? Check out this Mood Sewciety Cowl Neck dress! Cowl neck designs offer easy elegance, and the side buttons....so fun! This dress would be perfect for any black tie wedding, just maybe stay clear of the silver/white color and opt for something darker. Full instructions and pattern pieces are provided by just supplying your email and you can print it out at home. 

Fabric Ideas

Mood actually lists fabric ideas in the listing, so be sure to check it out! 

The Iberis Gown 

Want a little more modest of an option? This dress is perfect with the sleeves and length! The overlay offers a beauty that will help the dress shine, and it's completely free! Opt for some sparkles or stick with just a lace as either way you are going to have a gorgeous make!

Fabric Ideas

Mood actually lists fabric ideas in the listing, so be sure to check it out! 

More Adventurous Takes!

Misses' Sleeveless Wide-Leg Jumpsuit

Want to play with your outfit a little more, or attending a Black Tie Optional wedding? What about this fun jumpsuit! The wide leg look paired with a fun fabric would be perfect with this pattern. Jumpsuits can be a really easy way to feel comfortable while dressing for the occasion! 

Fabric Ideas

This jumpsuit will do great with Sequin Mesh, Crepe, and Matte Jersey type materials. It does require a lining which the pattern suggests charmeuse. Check out some ideas below for it!

The Beaufort Peplum Ensemble

Okay so hear me out on this one. Imagine this outfit in a deep ruby or emerald green and you would have a stunning look! The peplum top and the fitted pants work so well together, and with the right evening wear material you can look like a star! This may be a better fit for a Black Tie Optional wedding, and then it would be so fun for semi-formal too! 

Fabric Ideas

Mood actually lists fabric ideas in the listing, so be sure to check it out! 

Creating your own black-tie wedding guest attire is not only a rewarding experience but also a chance to showcase your unique style and craftsmanship! With the right sewing patterns, you can design an outfit that stands out in elegance and sophistication while being right on theme. Always be sure to check with the wedding couple for any outfit questions or confusions so you can best meet their expectations!

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