MERCHANT AND MILLS • The Trapeze Dress Sewing Pattern
Printed sewing pattern • Sizes UK 8–18 • Skill level: Beginner
The Trapeze Dress Sewing Pattern by Merchant & Mills is a timeless, signature design celebrated for its clean lines, relaxed silhouette and effortless versatility. Simple yet striking, this is a pattern that works beautifully across seasons and fabrics, making it a dependable staple within a handmade wardrobe.
Designed with Merchant & Mills’ understated aesthetic, the Trapeze Dress features a loose, easy-to-wear shape that can be adapted to suit your style. The pattern includes multiple sleeve options — ¾ length, short sleeves or sleeveless — along with a choice between a button-back opening or a clean back finish. A built-in lengthen and shorten line also allows the design to be easily adapted into a top.
Whether sewn in crisp linen, soft chambray or structured denim, the Trapeze Dress offers endless possibilities for creating garments that feel both modern and timeless.
Perfect for:
- Relaxed dresses and tops with a timeless silhouette
- Beginner sewists looking for a versatile wardrobe project
- Showcasing natural fabrics with beautiful texture and drape
- Layered, everyday garments designed to be worn year-round
Skill level • Beginner
Pattern details:
- Printed sewing pattern with clear, step-by-step instructions
- Sizes UK 8–18 included
- Three sleeve options: ¾ length, short sleeves or sleeveless
- Choice of button-back opening or clean back finish
Suggested fabrics: This pattern works best in woven fabrics such as:
- Linen, cotton and cotton-linen blends
- Chambray and denim
- Wool suiting
Soft fabrics will create fluid movement, while more structured cloths will emphasise the sculptural silhouette.
Fabric requirements • Please see last image for fabric requirements.
You will also need:
- Matching thread
- Fusible interfacing (see fabric requirements)
- For button-back versions: 6 x 20–23mm buttons for the top; 10 x 20–23mm buttons for the dress
Sewing tips:
- Choose fabric carefully depending on whether you prefer a softer drape or more structured shape
- Take time when sewing the button-back version for a neat finish
- Consider shortening the pattern into a top for an easy everyday wardrobe staple
Why we recommend this pattern: The Trapeze Dress is a true Merchant & Mills classic — simple, endlessly adaptable and beautifully wearable. It’s the kind of pattern you’ll return to repeatedly in different fabrics and variations.
Part of our curated collection of Merchant & Mills sewing patterns, chosen for their timeless workwear-inspired aesthetic and thoughtful design.
Browse our full collection of sewing patterns for modern handmade wardrobes.
