Pattern Tutorial | Full Length Kat Variation

Turning the Kat Dress into a floor length dress without colorblocking like this version is really pretty easy. As far as the bodice you're going to use the four lining pieces not only for the bodice lining, but for the bodice itself. For each of these pieces double the amount listed on the pattern piece when cutting and that's it. The skirt requires a bit more work so I've illustrated how to do it below.

Figure 01 | Start with your front and back skirt pattern pieces in your size.

Figure 02 | If you would like to create gathers rather than pleats, blend smoothly across the pleated waistline as shown above.

Figure 03 | You'll be left with something like this. There are essentially two ways to lengthen the skirt, both methods are shown below.

Figure 04 | This first method for lengthening the skirt yields a fuller hem than the original Kat dress. To accomplish this, lengthen the skirt evenly across the hem line, keeping the side seam at the same angle as the original skirt.

Figure 05 | This second method maintains the same hem sweep as the original Kat dress. In order to do this, trace the top portion of the skirt, measure out the new length you'd like. Slide the skirt down the center front or center back line and trace the hem line. Then draw a new side seam from the side waist to the side hem. After you've done that just continue with the regular instructions. You may want to just fold your hem up twice rather than creating a hem facing but other than that everything else is the same!

As always, let me know if you have any questions.