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Hello sewing friends! Today, I have a massive sewing pattern inspiration past for you. It started with the idea of sewing your own Summer Wardrobe and kind of exploded into a list of over 50 patterns. :P The patterns are organized by garment type into 10 categories. Whether you’re looking to fill a gap in your wardrobe, or start from scratch, you’ll be sure to find a few patterns to get you started.

When selecting patterns, I looked for patterns that imo are good for warm weather (not too tight or constricting) and a variety of styles. I’ve not sewn many of these patterns but I did favor designers that I’ve sewn before and include that info when possible.

The first place I go when looking for patterns is Seamwork. I’ve been a member since the very beginning and I really love having a whole catalog of patterns available for any whim that strikes. They also have lots of tutorials and an active online community. For the most part, I’ve selected one Seamwork pattern per category so if you’re a member too, you’ll have lots to choose from. (Note, the Seamwork links included here are affiliate links, meaning if you purchase via one of the links, I’ll earn a small commission.)

I didn’t include my own patterns in the roundup BUT I do want share my top 5 for summer. I spent most of the last two decades living in Southern California so many of my designs are great for warm weather. Above from left: Miri Tank, Lou Box Dress 1, Lela Skirt, Eva Tops & Sundress, and the Summer Sweatsuit. Btw, the Miri and Eva both have three cup size options for every size, so you’re less likely to need an FBA.

The first three Sewing With Numbers projects are also great for summer weather. If you’re a paid subscriber, you can explore these in the archive. If not, you can purchase a pdf version in the shop.

I’m also hosting a nearly storewide sale for the month of May that includes the Sewing With Numbers pdf manuals. You can get 20% off with code MMM2026 at checkout. (Valid for single pdf patterns, printables and drafting manuals. Sale ends May 31, 2026 at midnight Pacific time. Only at sewdiy.com.)

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Ok, let’s get on with the patterns!

I love sewing a wearing dresses, and when it’s hot out, I prefer something with a lot of volume for air flow.

Isobel Dress by Paperdoll Pattern Co. on Etsy I saw this pattern on TikTok and was delighted to see that the design is similar to our current drafting project here on SWN.

The Leighanne Dress by Seamwork has been on my sewing list for a while. I especially love the double spaghetti strap. This would be a great choice for a fancier summer event.

Parasol Dress by Criswood sews This is a different style of pattern because it’s a zero-waste draft it yourself style. I made this dress a few years ago and blogged it here.

I’m a big fan of Grainline Studio patterns but have not sewn the Austin Dress (yet!). I love the side button design and the unique dart position. I made a dress with side buttons in the late 90s/early 00s and still think about it.

The Pauline Alice Ibi dress is another one from my sewing list. The pattern has about six views with varying sleeves and skirts. I was trying to design something similar years ago that was a raglan style with sleeves that could also be used for a sleeveless style. This pattern is in my stash just waiting for the right opportunity.

I love a jumpsuit for both casual and dressy events. It’s a dress but with a twist.

First up is the Fibre Mood Felicia Jumpsuit This design looks very sophisticated with the deep V and wide legs. I’ve actually never sewn a Fibre Mood pattern but they are very established so I would trust buying from them.

Durban Jumpsuit by Megan Nielsen I haven’t sewn this jumpsuit but I’m a big fan of Megan Nielsen patterns. She always has a lot of views to choose from and the instructions are consistently great.

Daisy by I Am Patterns looks like a great design for casual poolside days.

The Rowena Jumpsuit Victory Patterns is one of my favorite patterns. I’ve actually made it twice! Blogged here and here. It looks elegant and a little fancy but it’s super comfy because the waistline is fitted with elastic thread. There’s also a pants option included!

The Seamwork Kari Romper looks super fun and cute. I could see taking it on vacation and even using it as a swim coverup.

Whether it’s a mild day, cool evening or you’re looking for extra sun protection, pants still have a place in the summer wardrobe. All of my picks have elastic waistbands because obviously comfort and movement is extra important in the heat.

The Reya Pants by Chalk + Notch have wide legs and a pintuck down the center for a little extra style.

The Seamwork Max pants have a flat front and elastic back. There’s also a Member bonus with straight legs.

Emile Barrel Pants by Ready to Sew have a mid-waist rise and both a straight and barrel style leg.

The Langston Trousers French Navy are an elastic waist design with carpenter pant design details. I’d love a pair of these to wear while gardening. I’ve not sewn this pattern but I have sewn a couple of patterns by French Navy and really like them.

The Free Range Slacks by SewHouse7 are a great elastic waist woven pant pattern that are not your average design. Instead of a traditional side seam, there are topstitched side panels. I made the tapered leg version in linen a few years ago and love them. The pattern includes both straight and tapered legs and goes up to a size 34.

I love wearing shorts in the summer and have made dozens of pairs. Below are a few patterns that I love and a couple that are new to me.

The True Bias Dani Shorts were in my stash for a few years and I finally made them last fall. The waistband is mostly elastic with just a little of the front being flat. I made the zip fly but they can easily be taken on and off without using the zipper. They are definitely a favorite pair! Blogged here.

The Tasha Shorts by Fibre Mood look like the perfect woven sport short for running around all summer long.

Donna Bermuda by Bella Loves Patterns features a flat front, elastic back and classic trouser styling. I’m not familiar with this pattern designer but I really liked this design.

The Tania Culottes by Megan Nielsen are one of my all-time favorite patterns. I made this pattern twice a long time ago and love how swingy and flowy the design is. If you want shorts that can twirl, this is your pattern!

I made the Seamwork Dorian shorts last fall and got to wear them on vacation in February. The style looks fitted with the princess seams and flat front but they are actually really comfy—more than I even expected. Blogged here.

In my pattern searching over the last couple of days, I was kind of surprised that there don’t seem to be as many skirt patterns available. This was actually the toughest one to fill out. If you want to design your own skirt, check out the SWN archive.

For a classic gathered skirt with a button front, try the Wardrobe By Me Button Front Skirt.

I’ve really been wanting a denim skirt with classic styling and I think the StyleArc Lennox could be a good option. I’ve used a few StyleArc patterns before and like them but they are often not beginner friendly. The instructions can be pretty sparse.

The La Ciotat skirt is a romantic wrap skirt with a yoke, gathers and two bow ties.

The Seamwork Darcy is a pleated wrap skirt that I think would be beautiful for a fancier evening out.

Last but not least, the Atelier Scammit Nuance skirt is a classic bias cut skirt with a fitted waistband.

Now that we’ve thoroughly covered patterns for bottoms :), let’s look at top patterns. Again, I tried to find a variety of styles and focused on patterns that are comfortable in the summer heat. I’m realizing now that quite a few have sleeves but if you have sensitive skin like I do, you’ll understand!

I love the design of the True Bias Aster top. The square neckline and button back are so chic. This pattern also comes with a dress a version.

The Revel Topper by SewHouse7 is a great design when you’re looking for a loose fit with sophisticated details. I’ve not sewn this pattern but I always love using SewHouse7 patterns.

I love a button down shirt for layering in the summer. Here in the PNW, the mornings and evenings are cool so we always need layers on hand. I also really want to make a striped button down and the Olya Shirt by Paper Theory would be perfect for showing off the stripes.

If you’re looking for something more romantic and a little fitted, the Seamwork Sage is a great option with its princess seams and gathered sleeves..

Amalfi Blouse by Sewing by Masin A classic peasant style with a button front, this design would look great paired with shorts and even a knit tank underneath for easy outfit changes.

T-shirts and tanks are a must for any summer wardrobe. For this roundup, I picked two classic designs and three that are more fun!

For a classic boxy tee, I’d try the Madeline Tee by Madswick.

A rib knit tank is great for layering and the Kila Tank by Allie Olson is a great pattern. I made one a few years ago and still wear it. Blogged here.

If you’re looking a retro 70s halter style, I’d try the Seamwork Jovi Halter. It’s such a fun design and comes with a built in bra.

For a flirty and feminine knit top, you can try the Agnes Jersey Top by Tilly & the Buttons. I haven’t sewn this pattern but have liked other patterns by Tilly. If you’re a Seamwork member, you might try the Goldie tee. I made it and really liked it. Goldie blogged here.

If you’re looking for a going out top, the Ulpu Cross Neck by Named Patterns is a great option. This pattern also includes a built-in bra. I’ve not sewn this pattern but have like other Named patterns that I’ve made.

Your summer wardrobe isn’t complete without a swimsuit. Here are a few at the top of my sewing list.

The Zahra Swimsuit by Sew Over It includes both a bikini and one-piece. I love the center bow feature.

For more coverage, try the Jia Surfsuit by Friday Pattern Company.

For a little more drama, try the Fibre Mood Lucca.

For a classic design, I’d try the Megan Nielsen Cottesloe. It includes one-piece and bikini options.

The Seamwork Maggie two piece is my go-to swim pattern. I’ve made it twice and love it. Blogged here with tips for sewing swimwear. Btw, the second time I made this top, I did an FBA and the fit is a lot better.

Our last section! Phew! Your outfit isn’t complete without an accessory. Here are few to get your sew-jo going.

The Utility Hat pattern by The Assembly Line is free! I really like the option with the extended brim for extra sun protection.

The Poolside Tote by Noodlehead looks big enough for a long day out. I’ve not made this pattern but have really liked other Noodlehead patterns.

The Nousha Hip Bag by Fibre Mood looks like a fun and useful project.

I love the design of the Paquette Bag by Christine Haynes. It’s definitely on my sewing list! Btw, I have sewn her patterns before and like them. :)

Finally, the Fairbank Hat by In the Folds comes with three views of varying brim length. I haven’t sewn this pattern but recommend In the Folds.

Thank you so much for reading! I hope you enjoyed this post and found some ideas to inspire your summer sewing. Let me know in the comments what’s on your sewing list.

50+ patterns to sew this summer

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