Chiffon gives a children’s evening dress an airy, elegant look. It is sheer and delicate, so the dress needs a proper lining and a closure that is easy to sew. These notes show what to look out for.

About the chiffon

The chiffon used here is a fine, open-weave synthetic fabric. It is sheer, so it must always be lined.

Choose a cotton lining

Chiffon has no body of its own, so line the dress with a 100% cotton lining rather than polyester. Cotton is breathable and gentle against a child’s skin, which matters at a long party. Polyester linings can feel hot and sticky.

Back opening

Because chiffon is not stretchy, the dress needs an opening so it goes over the child’s head. Use a hidden zipper, or cut a small keyhole opening at the back with a button loop.

• Use a fine needle (60/8 to 70/10) and fine thread to avoid snagging.
• Sew with a short stitch and finish edges with French seams or a narrow rolled hem.
• Cut chiffon on a flat surface and use plenty of pins or weights because it slips easily.