Crochet Sundress with Shoulder Straps

Crochet Sundress with Shoulder Straps by Yelena Chen

What is Being Made

This is a beginner-friendly crochet sundress designed for infants, available in two sizes: 3-6 months and 6-12 months. The dress features a delicate lace construction in the upper portion and shoulder straps for secure fit. The garment is worked from the waist upward, creating an elegant openwork design suitable for warm weather wear.

Sizes and Measurements

• 3-6 months: 16.5 inches (42 cm) chest, 12.5 inches (32 cm) length
• 6-12 months: 18.5 inches (47 cm) chest, 15 inches (38 cm) length

Crochet Techniques and Stitches

The Crochet Sundress with Shoulder Straps employs foundational crochet techniques appropriate for beginners. The construction begins with a foundation chain that establishes the waist circumference, followed by a foundation row worked in single crochet and double crochet combinations.

The primary stitch pattern features shell stitches—a classic openwork motif created by working multiple double crochets into a single stitch, separated by skip stitches and single crochet stitches. This creates the characteristic lace appearance visible in the upper bodice of the dress. The pattern uses chain spaces (abbreviated as ch 2) to create additional openness and visual interest throughout the garment.

Key stitches include:

• Single crochet (sc): Used to anchor the shell stitch pattern and create structure
• Double crochet (dc): Forms the bulk of the decorative shells and lace sections
• Chain stitches (ch): Create spacing between pattern repeats and form the foundation

The pattern is worked in rows with turning chains, and the designer indicates right side (RS) and wrong side (WS) rows to ensure proper stitch orientation. Gauge is critical for proper fit: 5.5 double crochets per 1 inch should be achieved before beginning the project.

Materials Required

The dress is constructed using sport weight yarn (also referred to as #2 or #3 DK weight yarn). The recommended yarn is Patons Grace 100% Mercerized Cotton in the Blush colorway, though any comparable sport or DK weight yarn may be substituted.

• Yarn quantity: 3 skeins for the 3-6 month size or 4 skeins for the 6-12 month size
• Yardage: 408 yards (3 skeins) or 544 yards (4 skeins)
• Fiber content: 100% mercerized cotton (breathable and ideal for infant summer garments)
• Crochet hook: 4 mm or size needed to obtain the specified gauge
• Notions: 4 or 5 buttons (approximately 1.25 cm diameter) for closure and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and finishing

Construction Notes

The pattern begins with a chain foundation of 98 stitches for the smaller size or 110 stitches for the larger size. The foundation row establishes the lace pattern through a repeat of skip stitches, shell stitches, and single crochets. Subsequent rows build upon this foundation, creating the openwork texture characteristic of summer dresses. The shoulder straps are incorporated into the design to ensure the dress stays securely on the wearer.

This downloadable PDF pattern from independent designer Yelena Chen is suitable for crocheters with beginner-level skills who are comfortable with basic stitches and simple stitch pattern repeats.