If you have been on the lookout for alt/goth patterns, you know there are not that any around. Given the number of indie pattern designers, there are very few who design for alt/goth folks. Yes, you can make most patterns goth by sewing them in black fabric, but it would be nice to have more variety when it comes to design.
While patterns designed specifically for alt/goth folks are very few, there is another kind of pattern that relies heavily on the alt/goth sensibilities and can very easily become beautiful dark garments. Many designers borrow from alt, goth, and steampunk elements to create Halloween costumes. But if you identify as alt/goth/steampunk, these patterns are no longer costumes but outfits that you can sew and wear in your everyday life.
Not only are these Halloween costume patterns widely available, they can be a huge help if you are just starting to sew and still does not have the skills to hack patterns. They also save a lot of time as you can sew them right out of the package (well, you will still have to make any adjustments, but you know what I mean).
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Butterick
If your style leans towards historical clothing, you will find some nice patterns here. The selection is very limited and mostly focusing on women’s patterns. Sizing for these patterns are not inclusive.
Butterick Floor-Length Dress with Flared Sleeves B4571
Fitted, flared, floor-length dress has lined, princess seam bodice, square neckline three-piece flared sleeves with finger thread loop and back lacing. In crushed black velvet and black lace, this dress would be stunning. Definitely a garment for a big event.
Butterick Misses’ Drop-Waist Dress with Oversized Bow B6399
Close-fitting dress has contrast overlay, shoulder straps, and hook & eye closure. Loose-fitting overdress and contrast pleated sash with bow has both snap and hook & eye closing. I love everything about this dress but that oversized bow. The color of the dress on the package is perfection. Sizing for these patterns are not inclusive.
McCalls Costumes
McCalls has some awesome costume patterns. Many of the patterns are part of the cosplay collection.
McCalls M8127
Boned bodice dress with peplum, bolero jackets, and cape. The cape is a bit too much for me, but the dress with the boned bodice and the two-layer skirt are beautiful.
McCalls M8336
Dresses with square neckline, short puffed elasticized sleeves or long puffed sleeves with wide cuffs and back zipper. Dresses have full gathered skirts with or without lower ruffle. Design options include sheer overlay, lace and ribbon trims, fabric bows, dickie, and ruffled collars. I am absolutely in love with the black and red dress from the package and might adapt it to make only the outer dress.
Mood Fabrics (Free Patterns!)
Mood has hundreds of free patterns. They are beautiful, size-inclusive, and as I just said, free! The only drawback is that there is no copy shop options for printing. You will have to tape the however made sheets of paper that the pattern requires.
The Cruella Coat
Coat pattern with below elbow length sleeves, shawl collar, edgy asymmetrical hems, and front buckle closure. This coat is just gorgeous! I can sew it in wool and be warn all winter long.
The Helios Jacket
The Helios is a feminized version of the Star-Lord pattern. In pleather, the Helios is full of cyber punk possibilities; in a more everyday fabric like twill or denim, it will follow you everywhere.
The Luthien Dress
The Luthien Dress has a classic princess-seamed silhouette, wide boat neck, and lace-up detailing. This is another great option for a party dress.
Simplicity
Simplicity has so many costumes that can easily become goth/steampunk staples. The Steampunk collection alone can create a wardrobe full of dark delights. Sizing is not very inclusive.
Simplicity Steampunk Costumes S1558
Fitted jacket with puff sleeves, two skirt styles, boot spats, corset, and blouse. I have the blouse and skirt with the double-end bolt snaps already cut on my sewing table.
Simplicity Steampunk Costumes S2172
Victorian-era styled coat, skirt and bustier. I’d probably shorten the skirt but would keep the gorgeous pleating.
Simplicity Steampunk Costumes S9007
Themed bolero-jackets with sleeve variations and ruffled skirts in two lengths with graduated hemlines. While the skirts a bit too much for work, I would love to add the shorter one as a happy hour option.
Simplicity Steampunk Costumes S9086
Victorian-inspired steampunk/gothic lined Coat with separating zipper front and full A-line skirt with trim and collar variations. Focus less on the pirate vibe and more on the military style, and you have a beautiful night coat.
Simplicity S9249
Fitted jacket with stand up collar, slim fit sleeves, and snap front closure. Cropped hooded tabard has d-ring side closure. Knit pull-on pants with pockets, and knee appliqués. I love the jacket’s military inspiration, and the knee appliqués make the pants very industrial-looking.
Which One Will You Make?
With so many fun patterns, the hardest part is picking just one. I started on the version of Simplicity 1558 with all the hardware. I guess I am going for all the gold details. And have I mentioned I am in love with McCalls 8336? Just gotta wait for the next Joann pattern sale.
Do you have a Halloween pattern you have successfully used as everyday clothing? Share below!
