03/07/2026
📝 Lesson Notes: Mermaid Dress Pattern
1. Basic Structure
• The skirt has two main sections:• Upper fitted part (hip to knee)
• Lower flared part (knee to hem)
2. Key Measurements
• Hip width: Taken around the fullest part of the hips.
• Knee width: Slightly narrower than the hips for a fitted silhouette.
• Length from hip to knee: 23.6–31.5 inches.
• Flare extension: 7.9 inches outward from the knee line.
3. Pattern Drafting Steps
• Draw a vertical line for skirt length.
• Mark hip line and knee line.
• Add hip and knee widths with horizontal arrows.
• Extend flare outward by 7.9 inches from the knee line.
• Smoothly connect hip → knee → flare for the mermaid shape.
4. Sewing Notes
• Use fabric with good drape (lace, satin, crepe).
• Add seam allowance (usually 1 inch).
• Consider lining for lace fabrics.
• Test flare proportions with muslin before cutting final fabric.