
How to Sew a Reversible Dress with Sleeves: DIY Tutorial for Halloween & Christmas
Want to make a versatile dress that works for multiple occasions? This step-by-step tutorial shows you how to sew a reversible dress with sleeves using the Elouise and Pearl patterns, perfect for both Halloween and Christmas. With one side themed for Halloween and the other for Christmas, you’ll have two dresses in one, making this project ideal for holiday sewing!


Materials Needed for a Reversible Dress with Sleeves
To create your own reversible dress, gather these materials:
- Dress Pattern for Woven Fabrics: Use a pattern with a fully lined bodice and button or snap closure. In this tutorial, we’re using the Elouise pattern with Pearl sleeves.
- Snaps: Depending on size, you’ll need around 6-9 sets of snaps (6 for size 2-3, 7 for size 4-5, 8 for size 6-8, and 9 for size 10-12).
- Optional Elastic for Sleeves: If you’d like elasticized sleeves (like the Pearl sleeve), have 1/4” elastic on hand.
- Two Fabrics: Choose two different fabrics that meet the “main fabric” yardage requirements in your pattern. This is key for creating a fully reversible look.
Step 1: Cutting Your Fabric
For each fabric, cut the following pieces:
- 1 front bodice
- 2 back bodice bottoms
- 2 back bodice tops
- 2 ties
- 2 skirt pieces
Each fabric cut will be used to make one side of your reversible dress.

Step 2: Assemble the Bodices
- Follow your pattern’s instructions to construct each bodice piece without attaching the lining.
- Add sleeves according to the pattern, without lining the bodice.
- Sew the side seams of each bodice individually. You should now have two separate bodices, one from each fabric.


Step 3: Assemble the Skirts
- For the first fabric, construct the skirt according to your pattern, omitting the placket.
- Cut the back skirt piece in half
- Sew two rows of gathering stitches along the top.
- Gather and attach the skirt to the matching fabric’s bodice.
- Repeat these steps for the second fabric, assembling the skirt and attaching it to the second bodice.
You should now have two unlined dresses.


Step 4: Prepare the Sleeves
Before combining the two dresses, finish the sleeve hems on both sets:
- With a Serger: Serge the raw edge of each sleeve. Fold up 1/2” and press.
- Without a Serger: Fold each sleeve hem up 1/4” twice to encase the raw edge, then press.
Step 5: Combine the Two Dresses to Make Them Reversible
Now it’s time to make your dress fully reversible:
- Place one dress inside the other, with right sides facing each other.
- Starting at the bottom edge of the skirt on one side, sew up the back, around the neckline, and down the opposite side of the skirt.
- Clip the corners and curves, then turn the dress right side out. Press all seams to ensure a neat finish.

Step 6: Complete the Sleeves
1. Pin the sleeve hems wrong sides together.

2. Topstitch around each sleeve with a 1/8” seam allowance, leaving a 1/2” gap for inserting elastic.
3. Stitch another seam 5/8” from the edge to create a casing for the elastic.

4. Measure the child’s bicep, add 1/4”, and cut two pieces of elastic to this length.
5. Thread the elastic through the casing and overlap the ends by 1/4” before sewing them together. Sew the gap shut and repeat for the other sleeve.


Step 7: Hem the Skirt and Add Snaps
- Hem the Skirt: Finish the bottom raw edge with a serger if you have one. Fold up the hem by 1 inch, press, and sew. Without a serger, fold the edge up 1/2” twice, press, and sew.
- Add Snaps: Place snaps along the back of the bodice and down the skirt. For ease of dressing, add two snaps at the top of the bodice and evenly space the remaining snaps down the back.
Final Thoughts on Making a Reversible Dress for the Holidays
Creating a reversible dress with sleeves is a fantastic way to have multiple outfits in one! This Halloween-and-Christmas-themed dress is perfect for families looking to get the most wear out of their handmade clothing. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced sewist, this tutorial will guide you through creating a fun, reversible holiday dress that’s stylish, practical, and completely unique.
By sewing a reversible dress, you’re adding versatility to your child’s wardrobe while showcasing your sewing skills. Try it out and enjoy a holiday season with a handmade touch!
Try the Elouise and Pearl patterns today! Also, the Halloween fabric was sponsored by Art Gallery Fabrics. They have an incredible selection of hand drawn and digital designs printed on luxurious fabrics.





Thanks for reading!
