Ready for more March inspiration?! We're celebrating the March Top and Dress pattern all month-long! I knew when we were designing this pattern that it would be endlessly hackable, but it's been so inspiring to see all of the creative versions the sewing community has made since its release last year. Today I want to highlight some of my favourite (and easy!) March hack ideas, inspired by you!
Don't forget you can grab March for 20% off all month long! No coupon code required.
Adding Elastic at the Waist
Oversized dresses not your thing? Try adding elastic to the waistband like Cassie did in her version. It's as easy as sewing the 5/8" (1.6 cm) seam allowance up to create a small channel, and threading your desired length of 3/8" (1 cm) elastic through the casing. You can hold the elastic up around your waist ahead of time to figure out what length you'd prefer. Secure the elastic in place, and voila! You have a new silhouette for your March Dress.
Removing the Sleeves
If you checked out my blog post last week, you already know how easy this hack is. All you have to do is leave off the gathered sleeve piece and you instantly have a cute box top or dress. Christine took it a step further by cutting her front panel piece on the bias—such a great way to highlight her plaid print and the design of the March dress! I also love the way she styled it as a layering pinafore, perfect for wearing through every season.
Changing the Neckline
Every pattern is simply starting point—who says you can't change the shape of the neckline if you want?! March includes a split neckline design that you can sew with or without a necktie, but there's no reason you can't change it to a v-neckline like Tammy did (or any other shape, for that matter!). She also finished the front panel with the cutest pom pom trim. It's a great spot to break out piping, bias binding, or any other fun trims you've been saving!
Adding Gathered Skirt Tiers
Adding gathered tiers to a skirt is as easy as cutting out more rectangles of fabric, and it's a fantastic way to adjust the length of a dress to your liking. I'm obsessed with this hot pink maxi March from Sophie, and can't wait to make my own full length March! If you're interested in a deep dive on how to design your ruffled tiers, check out this great post written by Saki Jane.
Large No-Cuff Sleeves
Another amazing hack from Sophie—this time it's giant ruffled sleeve goodness! Sophie enlarged the gathered sleeve pieces and left off the sleeve cuffs to create this super fun March. You can play with the size and fabric choice to adjust to your liking. Lean into the drama with a more structured fabric, or create a more romantic and ethereal look with a drapier fabric. The possibilities are endless!
Thank you so much to Cassie, Christine, Tammy, and Sophie for their hack inspiration and graciously allowing us to share their images in this post!
Feeling inspired? There is no better time to try one of these easy March hacks—grab the March Top and Dress pattern for 20% off during the month of March! No coupon code required.
