NIKKO SWEATER DRESS | TRUE BIAS PATTERNS
HAPPY NEW YEAR! I hope you enjoyed the holidays with your family and are off to a great start in 2024. I really enjoyed my time away and now I’m excited to get back to sharing with my sewing community. And what better way to kick it off than with this stunning Nikko Sweater Dress. I know you’ve heard me say this over and over, but I can’t help myself. I LOVE THIS DRESS! Seriously, I don’t know what I like most; the fit, color, length, fabric, or matching beanie hat. I think it’s EVERYTHING for me this time. I’m loving ALL of this! Let’s get into the details.
Pattern Information
The Nikko, by True Bias Patterns, is a mock turtleneck that can be sewn as a top or dress. There are four different views to choose from to create your look. Views A and B are fitted tops. Views C and D are ankle-length dresses that are fitted through the waist and hip. The dresses have knee-length slits on both sides. Views A and C are sleeveless with a racerback style. Views B and D have long, fitted sleeves. This pattern is available in both Print & PDF, ranging in size from 0 – 30. Finished Garment Measurements between the top and dress are (Bust: 28.5″ – 54″ | Hip: 30.5″ – 59″).
This is a beginner-friendly project. If you have basic sewing skills, you should be able to complete the dress following the simple pattern instructions. Also there is a written sew along series on the True Bias website, START HERE. Don’t know how to sew yet? Check out my ONLINE SEWING COURSE for new beginners.
The Beanie Hat
When I decided to make a beanie hat to wear with the dress, I checked Google and YouTube for a pattern or tutorial. I found a Beanie Pattern on Etsy and decided to give it a try. The hat was very simple to sew but I must say, if you’re a new beginner, the instructions may not be very clear in a couple of places. I don’t know if it was just me, but I got the sizing all wrong on the first draft. Also, the pattern I received is different than what is demonstrated in the layout for cutting. It was easy to figure it out on my own, but if you don’t have developed skills it may be a bit confusing. With that being said, the PDF Pattern is very inexpensive (under $3) if you want to give it a try anyway. There are also tutorials on YouTube that walk you through the process of making a beanie hat. I don’t have a recommendation because I haven’t followed any yet.
Fabric Information
True Bias Patterns recommends Medium Weight Knit Fabric with about 75% stretch to sew the Nikko, such as: Rib Knit, Sweater Knit, Bamboo Knit, or Stretch Velvet. I chose this Light Blue Cable Sweater Knit. If you’ve been following my blog posts lately, you’ve seen me use this fabric in green HERE and HERE, and in Burgundy HERE. I’m just getting started because I have several other colors that I can’t wait to sew. It’s pretty cold right now, so I’m having fun working with the cable knit.
Inside the Garment
This entire dress can be sewn on a serger. However, I used both my Baby Lock Zeal Sewing Machine and Vibrant Serger. Both are entry level machines, without the bells and whistles. So, if you’re a beginner, please believe me when I tell you that it’s possible to create amazing garments with basic equipment. If you don’t own a serger, you can either leave the seam allowances raw (knits don’t unravel), or use a zig zag or overcast stitch on your regular machine. I did use my Euphoria Coverstitch machine for the hems but you can hem your dress on your regular machine with a twin needle or a zig zag stitch. Here are a few close-up photos of the seams on the inside of the dress.
Alterations Information
I did not make any alterations to the pattern, but I did close up the slit on the right side and add a couple of inches to the hem by drawing in a new hemline on the fabric before cutting. I also merged the cutting lines to my desired fit. I cut a Size 8 – bust; Size Zero – waist; and Size 8 – hip.
Styling Options
I’m so happy with the outcome of this outfit because it’s exactly what I envisioned. I styled it with a matching beanie hat, adorned with my “Tea Time’ brooch. I’m wearing dangling bling earrings; bling bracelets and a ring.
Someone asked how I get a smooth look when wearing fitted garments, like the Nikko Dress. I’m wearing these Spanx Footless Pantyhose that are very comfortable. I bought them to wear with pants but they also work with long dresses for leg warmth.
Styling Option 1
For the first look, I styled the dress with this colorful box handbag that I’ve had for many years. I bought myself a pair of white boots for Christmas. I have NEVER worn white boots in my life. I never wanted to because I always thought they looked big, even on small feet. But when I envisioned this dress, I saw white boots. Therefore, I decided to give them a try for the first time. I had requirements though. They had to be fitted with a pointed toe. That’s the only way I would wear them to keep me from looking like a Big Foot. When I ran across THESE BOOTS, they were exactly what I had in mind, so I purchased them in white and black. And they’re so comfortable! SCORE! I think the boots look amazing with the dress.
Styling Option 2
I would wear the second look on days when it’s not super cold. I paired the dress with a pair of chunky heels, a crossbody bag, and changed to a pair of big hoop earrings. The purse looks great with the white boots but I forgot to get photos of that look. I would also wear the dress with a pair of flat boots and carry this purse for a more casual look.
What do you think?
Do you like the dress better with the chunky heels or boots? Which purse do you prefer? I would love to hear your feedback. Scroll to the very bottom of this page to leave a comment.
Thank you for stopping by today! 💕
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This Post Has 69 Comments
Wow, my Sistah!!!! This is giving Mahagony..this is fire!!
Hi Anita,
I love this dress and the fabric. I purchased a few yards (tan and navy) and I have a couple of questions. How did the garments wash? Would you recommend this fabric for M7531, another knit dress pattern that you have enjoyed making.
Hi Trudy! The fabric washes well. I allowed it to air dry. It works beautifully with M7531.
Great looks! The dress with the boots is my favorite.
You look adorable as always! The outfit reminds me of a line of figurines called “Snow Babies,” for some reason, maybe because of the adorable beanie. I like the outfit better with the boots because I think the sandals look too summery with a long-sleeved knit dress and matching hat. I also prefer the two-toned bag because, again, I think the flowers on the box bag look too summery or spring-like for this outfit, which reads “winter” to me because of the fabric, the color and the style. 2024 is off to a great start for you with this outfit!!!
Happy New Year Anita! It’s great to hear from you. I made the NIKKO dress as well. Luv it! Blue is definitely your color& your dress is so well made! Love it 😍. Thanks for sharing ! You are among several sewist that have taught me a lot! Sweet Inspirations!
Good Wednesday to you,
Wow! Just wow!! I’m digging this fabric and pattern so much…..I may attempt to make one. I love, love the white boots and I’m totally with you about wearing white shoes or boots…..I stopped wearing them when I saw how big my feet looked 🤦🏾♀️
In any event, they look great with the dress, it’s the perfect look to me……love the beanie….. the dress is so simple, but, your outfits just make it pop!!!!
I would definitely wear boots with this dress…. another one hit out of the ballpark!!!
What a sew to kick of 2024!! You had the right idea about this knit and it is ideal for the Nikko dress. Each sew using this knit has been terrific; I can hardly wait to see what you sew next using it. Stepping out of your comfort zone to wear the white boots was a good one. The blue dress, matching beanie hat, white boots plus your blue and white purse are a classy combination. You look gorgeous! Thanks for sharing.
I love the entire outfit and that teatime hat pin is so cute 🙂
Thank you so much, Latonya!
Happy New Year Anita! You have done it again!!! I’m always amazed by your sewing skills, attention to detail, and by the outfits you make. I think the boots and beanie hat take this outfit to the next level. Thanks for stepping out of your comfort zone by wearing the white boots. The color is beautiful and you always look fabulous. Have an amazing day!!!!
Bonita!!! I’m in full agreement with you. Next level styling with that hat and boots. I’m so glad I gave the boots a chance because I really like the way they look with this dress. And they fit so well on my legs to keep me warm. You have an amazing day too, Bonita.
Hi Anita!
As always you hit it clear out of the park!! 😉
This was my scream (iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii) can you hear it? LOL!!!😂
I absolutely LOVE this!!💕
It was the white boots for me with the hand bag for sure!
Thank you for sharing!!! 🥰
Idea!!!!!!!! Yeeesss! I can hear you and I’m screaming right along. You got me all excited again. 😂 Yep! It’s the white boots. Thank you so much, sister! 💕
Another beautiful sewing project. You look amazing. The stitches are are so straight. Love seeing new items you sew. Thank you for sharing with all of us.
You’re very welcome. I’m glad you like the dress.
Love it! Thank you for sharing! Very inspired. I have the pink cable and made the Hive pullover…. now I need this soft blue!!!
Thank you Colleen! Oh, I love the Hive Pullover! Yes, the blue is very pleasing to the eye.
Another unbelievable outfit. Your style is so unique and fearless. Love it!!!
Ohhh, I love your description: unique and fearless!!! I love it. Thank you, Monica! 💕
Anita, love the garment and the beanie. You look awesome!!!! The garment is well made and you wear it well. I am a sewist as well, and I love to sew. Now that I am retired, I get a chance to sew more often and your projects always inspire me to do something out of my comfort zone. Thanks for sharing.
Hi Bernice! Congratulations on your retirement!!! How exciting that you get to spend more time sewing now. I’m glad you’re here and are inspired by what I share. Yes, getting out of our comfort zones encourages growth.
Anita, you killed it! You are so sharp and beautiful! I love the white boots and beanie… OMG!!! Your sewing is so neat and precise. The insides of your garments look just as beautiful as the outside. You have a God-given talent, and you enjoy sewing. I can see that! I love sewing too! Bless you, and Happy Sewing/Happy New Year!
Patricia!!!! Yes, two SEW Sisters loving our craft. Thank you so much for your beautiful, uplifting words. God bless you this year in every area of your life. 💕
Beautiful! So glad to be apart of this community. I don’t have space right now to sew, but sometime this year…
Marilyn, I’m so glad to have you in the community. Soak up all the inspiration until you have space to sew.
Sew so BEAUTIFUL Anita. You’re an amazing seamstress.
Thank you Debra! 💕
Flawless!! You know you’ve done well when you look better in the dress than the model on the cover of the pattern. Beautiful as usual, I Love It!!
Thank you! It’s a wonderful pattern.
GIRL!!! JUST STUNNING! PERIOD!
Thank you so much, Gwendolyn!
Oh, oh, oh! I am still insanely impressed with the construction of the turtle neck collar! Looks amazing on the inside!
Never thought about boot design. Good to know as I have little feet and they just make me look more elf and I just could not figure out the issue…
You have taught me so much about styling. I am so grateful for you!
I love all the looks on you! You look FABULOUS. Seriously considering going back and learning about your diet!
I may have to go make this dress simply because it is my son’s name. I have bought patterns for crazier reasons…..
Elizabeth, I had a chuckle over your elf comment. Hahaha! My heart is so grateful that I get to share my love of sewing and inspire others at the same time. It really blesses my heart. I’m very happy to have you here. And I love that you would buy the pattern because it’s your son’s name. 🤗💕🤗💕
My favorite is the first styling option. As always, you look gorgeous! I’m especially drawn to the bling! Lol. Love, love the earrings and ‘tea time’ pin!
Can’t wait to see what’s next!
Thank you so much Ronda! Yes, I think the bling gave it that extra touch of class.
Hi Anita
I always love to look at your completed sewing projects. The dress looks spectacular, but you look spectacular in the dress.
I, too, have this same fabric in this same color and I plan to make a skirt and top with it. But, that project is number 55 on my list as I have several other projects that I must first complete!! I like the boots with the multicolored purse. But, this is worth mentioning – you look fabulous in any color, style and combination. Keep the sewing blogs coming. I look forward to studying a new arrival.
Barb
Hi Barb! Thank you so much for your message. I laughed at your 55 projects. Hahaha!!! I have a lot in my head too. I’ll keep the blogs coming and you have fun getting all those projects sewn.
Beautiful! Your seams are perfect. I would never thought you could get this beautiful dress with a regular sewing machine using a zigzag stitch. I read you could. I have knitsvthat I have been wanting to sew, but put it off because I don’t know how to use a serger, I have one sitting. I am waiting and looking for more from you. You are inspiring.
Hi Kim! Oh yes indeed. You can certainly create beautiful knit garments with a regular sewing machine. I’m so glad you saw this post so you can get busy sewing with your knit fabrics. Stay tuned, my sister. More is coming soon.
Good looking dress! Love the boots! Both bags would work with the boots.
Yeeesss! I agree with you. Thank you so much. 💕
Everything about that dress and the way you styled it is a winner for me. I guess it depends on where you are wearing the dress as to boots or heels but to me either is a winner. Just beautiful!
Thank you so much, Carol! Yes, I agree with you. It depends on where you’re going.
Both shoes compliments the attire, but it’s the boots for me. Love it
It’s the boots for men too, Shirley! 💕💕💕
You are so stunning! and Talented too! The outfit looks amazing on you. I love that cable knit sweater knit. I, too have it in 3 colors. I love the way you put things together. So inspiring and talented. Thank you.
Thank you so much, Pat! Yes, this sweater knit is absolutely gorgeous.
That dress is bomb! You have inspired me to find cable knit fabric to use in restyling my late mother’s mink & leather bomber jacket. The jacket is a combo of mink & leather strips with leather sleeves. My mom had the jacket made from mink scraps left over from having her full-length mink coat restyled. For nearly 3 years, I’ve been trying to find the right shade of light brown ponte or neoprene knit to replace the peeling leather. A sweater knit may be a better option. Thanks for the inspo!
Oh my goodness! Donna, I think a cable sweater knit would be an AMAZING replacement for the sleeves on your mink bomber jacket. Oh wow! That’s gonna be really cute.
I’m new here and just love to see the beautiful things you make! I like both looks, but I lean towards the boots more. You did such a beautiful job. 🙂
Welcome Tiffany!!! I’m so glad to have you here. I love it with the boots too. Thank you. 💕
Anita,
What a beautiful dress and color! I like how you finished everything with wonderful detail. You continue to inspire me and I love the fabric! I thank you for sharing your expertise with each of us. I use my serger now, because of you!
Thank you Laura! Yaaaayyy! I’m so glad to hear that you’re using your serger now. 🤗
I want to be your next door neighbor! Wow, so much fun. I love all of the looks and it sounds like you have even more. So many options with this. Even early spring when it is cool enough for long sleeves. Another wonderful example to inspire us all! Thank you for posting. You motivate me and I’m now off to my craft room for some sewing.
Yay! You’re very welcome. Have fun sewing today. I’m planning to do some sewing today myself.
I love the dress with the boots, but I would carry the blue and white purse. Love your work inside and out.
Thank you Constance. I love it with the blue purse too.
Anita, thank you for all of your videos and blog postings. You are so talented, insightful and inspiring.
Peace and Blessings
💐💝🙋♀️Hi Anita, you are just SO Classy & Adorable!!!
Thank you so much, Laurie! 💕
You are COOLY STUNNING is this outfit Anita.
Kimberley!!! Thank you so much, my sister.
Beautiful as always!
Thank you Lynnette! 💕
Beautiful dress. I think you can switch the purses and have 4 looks!
Blessings
You are so right, Queen!
This is stunning! I love the look with the boots! The blue and white purse would be perfect. Another winner!
Where did you find your Tea Time brooch? I love it! Have a blessed day❤️
Hey Lola!!! Thank you so much. I found the Tea Time brooch at a Tea Room in my town many years ago. I love it. I also had one that said Jesus Rules but it broke and I couldn’t repair it. You have a blessed day too, sister. 💕