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Finding the right dress fabrics is important when making dresses that can be worn during the warmer months. Unlike winter, where heavier fabrics can be used, summer requires light-weight, easy to wear fabric that keeps you looking - and feeling - cool even on the hottest of days. Find the right dress fabrics for summer with this handy guide.

Summer Dress Fabrics

Some of the best dress fabrics for summer include the following:

Rayon

Sometimes known as viscose, rayon is a synthetic fibre made from regenerated cellulose such as wood. It has a smooth, comfortable texture that feels soft to the touch. It is also lightweight, making it a good choice for a variety of dress styles. It has a slight sheen that adds to the look. As it is very soft and a bit slippery, it can be a little harder to sew compared to cotton. It does not stretch, which means that it is not good for tighter fits. Dresses that work best in rayon include strappy boho style dresses, maxi and midi dresses and loose dresses that don’t require elastic or zips. 

Chiffon

Few things are prettier than a floaty dress made of chiffon. Although it is often associated with formalwear, chiffon can be great for casual dresses, too. This fabric is slightly sheer, with a delicate feel and look. It works very well for layered dresses, asymmetrical dresses, cap sleeve dresses, draped wrap-around dresses, long-sleeved boho style mini dresses, ruffle dresses, strappy dresses, and smocked dresses. This material can be used with zips and elastic if you work carefully. 

Cotton

Cotton is by far one of the most versatile fabrics for dresses and other clothing. Breathable, soft, comfortable and cool, it can be used for just about every style of dress. It is also easy to work with, whether adding zips, buttons, smocking or other details. You can also mix and match cotton with materials such as chiffon, velvet and satin. Although the list is extensive, a few styles you can make in cotton include strappy dresses, simple shifts, pinafore type dresses, mini, midi and maxi dresses, frill sleeved, shirred, halter-neck, and many others. 

MHC World offers a wide variety of high-quality dress fabrics that will help you create stunning summer dresses.