Introducing the Helena Wrap Dress + Tester Versions

Dear readers,

I’m delighted to be introducing a second wrap dress to the Just Patterns collection! As soon as I began working on this pattern, I was smitten by it and could not slow down until it was out. To me, it’s the perfect summer dress, and it also extends my current love for strong shoulders! So, without further delay, let me introduce you to the Helena Wrap Dress:

Helena is a breezy wrap dress with a hint of tailoring. It features a deep V-neck and a built-in waistband that extends into wide belt ties that wrap around the waist and cinch the silhouette for an effortlessly elegant effect.

It has a relaxed fit through the bust and hips. Shaping is achieved with pleats in the front and back bodice and soft gathers in the skirt. The neckband is grown on the front bodice. Wide sleeve bands finish the dolman sleeves to balance the silhouette. The pattern includes two pocket options: practical and discreet inseam pockets or large patch pockets for a casual tone.

All samples are cut from linen, cotton or linen/viscose blends, but there are also some great versions in fabrics with more drape like viscose and silk crepe. I think this pattern is particularly interesting in stripes and checks with the orientation of the front bodice grain line. If you follow that route, you may require additional yardage for matching, but it should remain reasonable if you cut on a single layer instead of on the fold.

This sewing pattern is available in the full-size range 34 to 60, with a B/C cup for the 34-46 size range and a DD cup for the 46-60 range, and both ranges are drafted for a height of 5’5”/1m65. The instructions include step-by-step instructions. This pattern is not difficult to sew, and in case you need help, I curate a list of helpful tutorials on the resource page!

The pattern includes:

• Layered PDF pattern in printing options for each of the two size ranges (print at home for letter or A4, A0 and US Copyshop for paper 36” wide);

• a Cutter’s must (a summary table of the pattern pieces and cutting information);

• PDF layout;

• order of operations ;

• and step-by-step illustrated instructions.

As with recently released patterns, Helena is available in French and English. It follows the new layout and branding you already noticed in my latest designs, making the instructions easier to read. I also recently updated the Tyra Tee and the Linda Wrap Dress is next, along with its new sizing and step-by-step instructions!

This pattern was my first time using a professional photographer’s services at her studio to take the product photos, and it has been quite overwhelming, but I do like the results! However, the limitation of me being the most available/affordable model remains, so I thought I could share some versions sewn by my lovely testers to give you an idea of how it looks on different bodies:

As usual, the pattern features Just Patterns’ signature “order of construction” as it comes in handy for experienced sewists who like to refer quickly to steps without scrolling through pages of instructions.

I’m also taking this opportunity to highlight that building on the recent discussions in our community. I have decided to add two more sizes to my upper range. I always considered Just Patterns a work in progress, and I remain committed to making the changes within my reach to ensure that sewing is enjoyable for many. The Helena Wrap Dress is the first pattern that goes from size 34 to 60 and also the first one for which I am formally offering to grade it up or down at no extra cost if your measurements are at least one full size outside of the size range. You can read more about the size range and the updated calendar for the older patterns here.

I hope you will enjoy sewing Helena and don’t forget to tag #HelenaWrapDress if you post on social media!

Happy sewing!