This session is an overview of draping sheath, semi-fitted, and shift dresses, which have no separation or seam at the waist.

They are classic one-piece dress styles with darts at the front and back. I also demonstrated how to prepare the muslin fabric and take measurements for draping these dress styles.

I explained that we would be draping sheath and shift dresses, which are classic one-piece styles without waist seams, using darts for shaping. I showed how to measure the dress form and prepare the muslin fabric for draping.

Lesson Steps:

• Measure the dress form from shoulder point, passing through apex, to desired length (e.g., 37-40 inches for a tall person)
• Determine muslin width as the widest part of the dress form (e.g., 9 inches) plus seam allowances
• For the front muslin, add 0.5 inch at center front for folding, and 2 inches on each side
• For the back muslin, add 0.5 inch at center back, and 2 inches on each side
• Measure hip line circumference and add 2 inches for the neckline curve
• Cut front and back muslin pieces according to these measurements