Five Reasons to Love the Dolman Dress

The Dolman Dress

The term “dolman” originates from the Turkish word “dolaman,” referring to a loose-fitting robe worn by men in the Ottoman Empire. This style evolved over time, influencing Western fashion, particularly in women’s outerwear during the 19th century, where the dolman sleeves became a distinctive feature.

In modern fashion, the Dolman Dress has emerged as a versatile, stylish, and comfortable garment that embodies this rich history. Characterized by sleeves cut deep and wide at the shoulder, with armholes extending almost to the waist and tapering to the wrist, the dolman sleeve creates a relaxed yet flattering silhouette.Whether you’re sewing for little ones or big kids, the Dolman Dress is a timeless addition to any wardrobe.

Five Details to Love about the Dolman Dress

Pockets
Tapered long or short sleeves cut in one piece with the dress.
A tapered dress shape that is a fun alternative to tunics, works over leggings.
The waist can be sized down, or kept the original oversize fit.
The wearer feels comfortable and confident.

From Littles to Big Kids

It all began with a bright and cheerful lemon-print dress, sewn using our little kids’ Dolman Dress pattern. Seeing how effortlessly stylish and comfortable it was, we knew this design had even more potential. The relaxed fit, easy movement, and unique silhouette made it clear — this pattern deserved a version for big kids too!

Brindille Twig Tester Spotlight

BT: How Did You Start Sewing?

Anya: “I started sewing when I found a sewing machine in a thrift shop. I never stopped sewing since I found that machine (of course I upgraded a few times and added a serger and overlock to my collection as well). Sewing relaxes me and gives me the freedom to make whatever I want, how I want, and for whom I want.”

BT: How Has Sewing for Your Daughter Changed Over the Years?

Anya: “I used to sew whatever I liked. Now, she determines if a) I’m allowed to make anything and b) how it’s gonna look 😅 But I like the fact that she knows what she likes! I’m all about color and crazy prints while she’s more serene in her choices.”

Anya's Dolman Dress | Side Pockets

BT: Your Favorite Online Fabric Shop

Anya: “My absolute favorite online fabric shop is Ansje Handmade, mostly because she has a huge variety in fair fabrics and she’s totally on trend!”

BT: Your Favorite Brindille & Twig Pattern

Anya: “If I had babies again, they’d wear the Summer Romper nearly 365 days, it’s so freckin’ cute! Luckily, I can sew for my baby niece every once in a while, and you can bet she has this in her wardrobe too!”

BT: Your Top Tip for Beginner Sewists

Anya: “Don’t give up and believe in the process: both your own process and the tutorials provided with the patterns you want to make. Stay relaxed and persevere!”

Written by Eleonora Arampatzis

Pattern tutorials

One-piece with back snaps -Pattern 68 – Brindille & Twig blog

I am working on a collection that I will be releasing 1 at a time every week with an early bird discount 🙂 This one-piece pattern is the second in the collection after the bodysuit dress. A friend...

Pattern hacks

T-shirt dress mod. #58

This is my first t-shirt dress pattern modification, although it's the perfect base for many mods. I love that Brutus is in this picture :) That's our shih-tzu. Anyway, the mod I did here is a vers...