Darted Bodice Dress with Short Sleeves: Free Sewing Pattern (Size 4XL)

 Darted Bodice Dress with Short Sleeves: Free Sewing Pattern (Size 4XL)

Looking for a well-fitted, figure-flattering dress pattern that actually accounts for real curves? This darted bodice dress with short sleeves is designed with princess-style front darts that shape smoothly through the bust, waist, and hip — giving you a tailored fit without a complicated construction process.

Below is the complete breakdown of this pattern, including all body measurements, pattern piece dimensions, and sewing notes, so you can trace, cut, and stitch with confidence.

Why This Pattern Works So Well
• Vertical front dart shaping that follows the natural bust-waist-hip line for a true fitted silhouette
• Separate short sleeve piece for easy cutting and construction
• Center front placement marked clearly for accurate symmetry
• Seam allowance of 1 cm (0.4 in) already included — no extra math needed before cutting
• Great for medium-to-heavier weight fabrics that hold structure well
Body Measurements (Size 4XL)


Measurement
cm
inches

Bust Circumference
138 cm
54.3 in

Waist Circumference
128 cm
50.4 in

Hip Circumference
146 cm
57.5 in

Back Length
44 cm
17.3 in

Dress Length
137 cm
53.9 in

Sleeve Length
20 cm
7.9 in


Bodice/Front Pattern Details
• Back length: 44 cm (17.3 in)
• Dress length: 137 cm (53.9 in)
• Shoulder width: 9 cm (3.5 in)
• Neckline width: 22 cm (8.7 in)
• Neckline drop: 3 cm (1.2 in)
• Armhole curve depth: 14 cm (5.5 in) / 10 cm (3.9 in) at the shoulder curve
• Armhole to underarm: 30.5 cm (12.0 in)
• Bust width: 21 cm (8.3 in) to center front, with a bust point dart width of 34.5 cm (13.6 in)
• Waist width: 32 cm (12.6 in)
• Hip width: 36.5 cm (14.4 in)
• Hem width: 40 cm (15.7 in)
• Side seam length: 93 cm (36.6 in)
• Center front / side line marked for accurate dart and seam placement
Sleeve Pattern Details
• Sleeve width (bicep line): 30.5 cm (12.0 in)
• Sleeve cap height: 15 cm (5.9 in)
• Sleeve cap top allowance: 3 cm (1.2 in)
• Sleeve length (underarm to hem): 30 cm (11.8 in)
• Hem width: 17 cm (6.7 in)
• Lower sleeve width: 30.5 cm (12.0 in)
Important Notes Before You Start
• All measurements are given in both cm and inches.
• Seam allowance of 1 cm (0.4 in) is already included in this pattern — no need to add extra.
• This pattern is drafted for the front piece, cut on the center front fold.
• The sleeve is a separate pattern piece and must be cut individually.
How to Cut
1. Trace the bodice/front pattern piece onto pattern paper, transferring all dart lines, bust point, waist, and hip markings exactly as shown.
2. Place the center front line on the fold of your fabric and cut one piece.
3. Trace and cut the sleeve piece separately — cut 2 for a symmetrical pair.
4. Transfer all notches and dart points onto your fabric using tailor's chalk or tracing paper before removing the pattern.
How to Stitch
1. Sew the darts first — stitch from the widest point down to a sharp point at the bust, waist, and hip markings, then press them toward the center front.
2. Attach the shoulder seams, matching the shoulder width markings, and press open.
3. Set in the sleeves — pin the sleeve cap into the armhole, easing the fullness evenly around the curve, then stitch and finish the seam.
4. Stitch the side seams from underarm to hem in one continuous line, following the shaped side line for a fitted silhouette.
5. Hem the sleeves by folding the 17 cm (6.7 in) edge under twice and stitching in place.
6. Finish the neckline with your preferred method — bias binding or a folded facing works well with this scoop neckline.
7. Hem the dress at the 40 cm (15.7 in) bottom edge with a clean double-fold hem.
8. Press the entire garment and check dart points lie flat and smooth against the body.
Final Thoughts
This darted bodice dress is a fantastic project for anyone who wants a truly fitted silhouette without relying on stretch fabric. The combination of clear dart shaping and a simple set-in sleeve makes it approachable, even if you're newer to fitted garment sewing.

Happy sewing!