In this lesson, I taught how to create a fitted ruched jersey dress with diagonal lines across the body. I demonstrated draping the fabric directly on the dress form, manipulating the ruching and darts to achieve the desired silhouette.

This ruched jersey dress is easy to make in 1-2 days. By draping directly on the form, you can play with the silhouette, adjust the ruching amount, and create diagonal lines across the body without side seams. The key is tacking the draped fabric to the lining at strategic points to hold the shape in place.

Lesson Steps:

• Drape fabric on dress form, creating ruching across the body diagonally
• Adjust amount of ruching and shape the silhouette as desired
• Decide on neckline style and finish neckline edge
• Add straps or sleeves if wanted
• Open side seam and take in excess fabric to create a fitted shape
• Tack draped fabric to the lining at waist, hips, and any areas needing to hold the shape
• Finish armholes and hem
• Optional: Add invisible zipper at side seam for tighter fit