January 21, 2021

Upton Mix & Match Expansion: Evening & Party Inspiration


Earlier this week, we looked at inspiration for a daywear Upton, and today is all about the party Upton! The great thing about the new Upton Dress & Skirt plus Mix & Match Expansion Pack is that you can have it both ways—all 350+ ways, in fact!—with a single pattern. All those bodice, neckline, sleeve, and skirt options mean you can craft a party outfit that’s just how you like it.

Although we’re not reaching for our party dresses quite as often these days, there are still lots of opportunities to celebrate life: birthdays, anniversaries, graduations—the list goes on! So throw on that special outfit for an intimate at-home gathering or a virtual Zoom celebration, and hopefully soon we’ll be able to gather again to share our me-mades with the rest of the world.

Okay, let’s pop a bottle of champagne and get the Upton inspiration flowing!

The Little Black Dress

Photo 1 / Photo 2 / Fabric 1 / Fabric 2

The little black dress is a wardrobe staple, but that doesn’t mean it has to be ordinary! Make a versatile party dress that has your personal touch applied to it, like a trendy square neckline.

Want the look? Pair the Upton’s darted bodice with the knee-length pleated skirt. (Sleeves or sleeveless? That’s up to you!)

Turn Up the Sparkle!

Photo 1 / Photo 2 / Fabric 1 / Fabric 2

Steal the show (or the Zoom call) in a glimmery Upton that sparkles in the light. A sequined fabric or metallic velvet is the perfect way to make your Upton extra special for those special occassions.

Want the look? Try a short flutter sleeve with the v-neck darted bodice and a maxi-length gored skirt.

The Silky Skirt

Photo 1 / Photo 2 / Fabric 1 / Fabric 2

Glide into every room in a silky Upton Skirt! Paired with a special top, this skirt can be just as fancy as a full dress.

Want the look? Choose a knee-length or tea-length gored skirt—oversized bow optional!

The Mixed Media Dress

Photo 1 / Photo 2 / Fabric 1 / Fabric 2

Mix and match complementary fabrics for a mixed-media Upton that is sure to impress. Substitute tulle for the fitted sleeves for a delicate and sophisticated touch.

Want the look? Go for the square-neck princess-seamed bodice and 3/4th length sleeves, combined with a tea-length gored skirt.

The Showstopper

Photo 1 / Photo 2 / Fabric 1 / Fabric 2

Stand out in the ultimate showstopper: a big and bold pleated maxi skirt. Choose a metallic jacquard or upholstery fabric for extra volume.

Want the look? Go for the maxi-length pleated skirt, and don’t forget pockets!


Feeling inspired? Get your copy of the Upton plus Mix & Match Expansion, and then let’s start sewing! Be sure to tag your makes with #UptonDress or #UptonSkirt on social media so we can inspired from your incredible creations.

4 thoughts on “Upton Mix & Match Expansion: Evening & Party Inspiration

  1. WOW!!!! These are gorgeous! Once this quarantine/pandemic is over I’ll definitely make one of these for either events or performances. Fabulous!!!

  2. Barbara says:

    I love this pattern. Will be ordering soon.
    Thinking a dress for my grandson s wedding ♥️

  3. Priti says:

    I am planning to make a pleated Upton skirt with a mesh fabric that has faux leather appliqué on it. I was wondering what to do about the lining. Should I put a gathered lining or would it be better to line the whole fabric and then pleat it as normal?

    1. It depends a little on the weight of the main and lining fabric – gathering could be bulky if the lining isn’t very thin. So, I’d probably interline instead (treat the lining and outer as one piece).

Let me know what you think!