266 Greek Island Dress

Women's XS to 2XL

The early years of the 20th century witnessed many avant-garde innovations, as people freed themselves from the constraints of the late 19th- century Victorian society. Both fashions and the arts were tremendously affected by new interpretations of classical styles and outright revolts against tradition. Isadora Duncan (1878-1927) was an influential figure in the 1910s and today is regarded as the founder of modern dance. She revolutionized dance with her free-form interpretive movements, encouraged arts education for children, and scandalized audiences by wearing non-restrictive, flowing robes that she adapted from Classical Greek vase paintings. 

Our Greek Island Dress sewing pattern pays homage to this unforgettable woman. The Dress is a loose-fitting sheath with back zipper and narrow shoulder straps; the front and the back yoke can be plain or embellished as desired. The Jacket has a center back godet that adds flare without adding fullness, single button-and-loop closure at the front, and a dramatic collar that extends over the sleeves like a filmy canopy. Optional braid or trim can suggest Classical Greece, French Country, or any other era. The Tunic is a breeze to sew, with front and back sailor collar and floating sleeve panels that can hang freely or be attached along the top of the arm. Braid trim, ball fringe, or other optional embellishment make this ensemble a fashion for any creative visionary.  

Suggested fabrics: For the Dress, choose silk or polyester crepe de chine or charmeuse. For the Tunic and Jacket, choose soft, filmy fabrics such as chiffon, georgette, gauze, voile, or novelty cut velvet.

Yardage chart (.pdf)

There are files for print at home (A4 or 8.5x11), large format (A0 and 36wide), and instructions.