The Madeleine dress is a timeless design built around the fluidity of the bias cut. It is available in both short and midi lengths, with long or cap sleeves. Constructed from a bias tube, the method itself creates the structure of the garment, resulting in an effortless approach to both making and wearing. 

This pattern offers two construction options to accommodate different skill levels. The simple version features cap sleeves, no pockets, and simple seams that are finished with a zigzag stitch. The detailed version includes set-in sleeves, in-seam pockets, and more refined finishing techniques, such as French seams at the neckline. You can move between these approaches, choosing simpler or more advanced techniques, depending on their confidence and experience. 

Working with the bias tube introduces a construction method that may feel unfamiliar at first. We recommend exploring the technique with a piece of paper before cutting into fabric to better understand how the form develops through folding. Once this method is in place, it introduces a new way of thinking about garment construction, offering possibilities that can be applied to future projects. It also supports a more material-conscious approach by allowing leftover fabric to be repurposed as bias binding. 

All product photos by Laura Oja.

Fabric Recommendations:
Medium-weight fabrics work best for Madeleine. If you choose a fabric with a directional pattern, keep in mind that cutting on the bias will tilt the motifs. Linen, cotton, light denim, seersucker, and viscose all work well for this design. The fluidity comes from the bias cut itself, so the fabric does not need to have natural drape. Even slightly stiffer fabrics can create a beautiful, more structured result. 

Fabric Requirements:
Detailed fabric requirements are included in the pattern instructions. They provide the exact fabric yardage for both sample versions: the short version with long sleeves and the midi-length version with cap sleeves in sizes 1 (2 · 3 · 4 · 5) [6 · 7 · 8 · 9].

Files:
A4 (home printing) and A0 (copy shop printing) PDF files with layers, sizes nested. Sewing instructions are in a separate PDF file.

Delivery:
After purchasing, you will receive a link to download the PDF files. There are no delivery charges for the digital patterns, as they are delivered automatically via email immediately after purchase. PDF patterns are only eligible for return and refund if the provided download links have not been used. If the download links have been used, the product will not be refunded.