Crochet a Lace Dress- Step by Step + Video Tutorial
I absolutely love working with Stylecraft Naturals Bamboo & Cotton (affiliate link). I first discovered this yarn when I designed the Josephine Dress and completely fell in love with the drape and softness. So when I saw the moody blue shade Downpour, I knew it was destined to become another heirloom-style piece.
I had this vision of an exaggerated lace ruffle around the yoke, and the Vivienne Dress came together even better than I imagined. It’s simple to make, yet full of those little details that make it special.
Get the Vivienne Dress crochet pattern here in my shop (instant download, all sizes included).
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The Yarn
For this dress I used Stylecraft Naturals Bamboo & Cotton DK in Downpour. It’s a blend of bamboo and cotton that’s light, breathable, and has the most beautiful drape — perfect for children’s clothing. There are 46 incredible shades to choose from and my little ones never complain about the way that it feels on delicate skin.
You can find the yarn here:
Stylecraft Naturals Bamboo & Cotton DK (affiliate link)
Other materials you’ll need:
• 3.5mm crochet hook (or size needed to meet gauge)
• Buttons (2–4 depending on size)
• Tapestry needle & stitch markers
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The Design
The Vivienne Dress is worked from the top down, starting with a simple half double crochet yoke. Once the sleeves are separated to create armholes, the body continues with a few rows of hdc before moving into the skirt section.
The skirt is a beautiful but easy-to-stitch combination of cluster V-stitches and double crochets — rhythmic and satisfying to work on.
The real showstopper is the ruffle: surface-crocheted into the third loop of the yoke, using double crochet V-stitches. It creates that dreamy lace effect that gives Vivienne her personality.
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Sizes & Skill Level
The pattern is available in sizes from 0-6 months up to 10–12 years. Though it looks detailed, the stitches are simple and easy to follow, making it a great project for adventurous beginners and experienced crocheters alike.
Positive ease gives the dress a comfortable fit, and it can be styled for everyday wear or dressed up for a special occasion.
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Who It’s For
The Vivienne Dress makes a perfect handmade gift, whether for birthdays, holidays, or simply to create a special piece for a little one’s wardrobe. It’s timeless, modern, and designed to be passed down through generations.
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Tutorials & Support
I know some parts of garment making can feel daunting, which is why I include step-by-step photo instructions and video tutorials with the pattern. From separating sleeves to working the ruffle detail, I’ll walk you through it all.
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Get the Pattern
Ready to make your own?
It’s an instant digital download, so you can get started right away.
If you’d like to try one of my designs before committing to the Vivienne Dress, I’d love for you to make the free Snowberries Dress. It’s a sweet, timeless pattern and the perfect way to get a feel for my approach to beginner-friendly crochet clothing.
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Save for Later
Don’t forget to save this project to your crochet board:
