What is a Smocked Dress? How to make Hand Smocked Dresses?

If you are bored with modern outfits like T-shirts, jeans, etc. It’s time to find out what is a smocked dress and why it is loved all over the world.

1. What is smocked clothing?

When talking about smocked clothing, people think of comfort first. But that doesn’t mean we underestimate their elegance and fashion.

1.1. Overview of Smocked Outfits

Smocked Outfits first appeared in Europe around the 12th-13th centuries. Initially, it was for shepherds and farmers living in rural areas across England, then gradually spread to a number of countries such as Italy and Germany.

Nowadays, we can find countless variations of smocked outfits. Smocked embroidery would adorn baptism and Christening gowns, girl’s bishop dresses, and smocked coveralls; while adults would be seen wearing hand-smocked casual and elegant embroidered clothing wear.

Fashion trends with smocked outfits will certainly continue to exist and develop. Especially when people increasingly appreciate traditional values. You can see fashion editors and street-style stars wearing smocked outfits in every one of their shows since 2018. And it proves that you are completely wise to learn about this type of outfit.

1.2. What is a Smocked Dress?

Smocking is an embroidery technique on fabric with the purpose of creating effects and highlights for each pattern. When sewing smocking, the craftsman will use elastic thread to hold the folds in the fabric. When completing the sewing process, a smocked dress will have more elastic, flowing and beautiful patterns.

There are many types of stitching found on smocked clothing stitches known as, honeycomb, cable stitch, and the smocker knot,… The areas of the dress, which were usually smocked, were the cuffs, chest, and waist areas. Smocking embroidered details will help these positions have a certain elasticity. This will transform the dress into an outfit that looks great on anyone.

Making a smocked dress has never been a simple job. Because it requires a lot of time and effort. Normally, workers have to hand smocked within a few days, even weeks, to create the highest quality product. But once completed, the dress will be a precious and luxurious item. That’s why are smocked dresses so expensive.

Entering the Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries, people were able to create machine-smocking products. While some machine-made products are truly lovely, the quality cannot match traditional hand-sewn clothes. That’s for sure, and you can easily recognize two types of hand-smocked & machine-smocked products with the naked eye: Machine-smocked can only do simple and repetitive details.

Obviously, creating machine-smoking products also goes against the traditional values that the tobacco embroidery technique conveys. Therefore, we do not encourage our customers to buy machine embroidery products, even though their quality is not bad.

A smocked dress can be worn by ladies in street outfits, but is most commonly seen on girls for everyday wear or on holidays such as Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Easter,…

2. We can classify smocking into 4 types:

• English Smocking: This is a two-step process to create fabric structure: Sew evenly spaced points to create a cup in vertical rows first, then connect the points on the cup horizontally, creating an effect. This method creates the characteristic feature of English Smocking – the elasticity of the vertical rows of cups. English Smocking includes more than 10 models, each with many different effects: Mock Chain, Surface Honeycomb, Cable, Diamond, Wave, Feather…
• Direct Smocking: This smocking is similar to English Smocking but instead of using a 2-step process, instead of creating a pre-made cup, we just need to sew together pre-calculated points on the fabric to create an effect similar to English Smocking.
• North American Smocking: This is a smocking technique that sews in a mesh structure with open stitches, creating folds with complex textures. This North American style of smoking has many points such as Lattice, Lozenge, and Flower.
• Italian Smocking: A form of sewing cups pressed together to create a shape on the fabric. There are two types of Italian smocking: border smocking and scattered smocking.

After you understand what does hand smocked mean, do you want to know how to create them? Below are specific instructions:

3. How to make a hand smocked dress?

Smocking is an advanced embroidery technique that, although not too difficult, will take a lot of time to complete. Next I will share with you how to make a hand-smocked dress in 8 simplest steps.

3.1. Step 1: Finding Your Material

You can use any fabric (linen, silk, cotton,…), but I have 100% cotton available here so I will use that. A tip for you is to choose fabric samples with symmetrical patterns, because you will need to mark the material to make the squares. Here, I also marked the location of the boxes for stitching in green.

To make this smocked dress, I prepared a piece of fabric measuring 2 yards because it does take extra material because of the smocking. I also bought 1 1/2 yards of white material to line the dress. And a bag of pearls to add to each stitch. Total cost is about $75.

3.2. Step 2: Pattern

I selected a dress that I was certain would fit my granddaughter and created a pattern from it. It’s crucial to choose the right pattern before starting the smocking process in order to determine the appropriate amount to smock. In my case, I opted to smock the front upper portion of her dress. It’s advisable to smock a slightly larger piece than necessary because you’ll trim the pattern piece after completing the smocking. This pattern helps you maintain the piece’s size close to your requirements, preventing you from smocking a piece that’s too large.

3.3. Step 3: Smocking Tutorial

Here’s a concise guide to smocking on any fabric:

• Use a washable marker to mark dots 1/2 inch apart both horizontally and vertically on the fabric.
• Make the dots twice as large as your desired finished size because smocking requires extra material.
• Start at dot 1 and move sequentially to dots 2, 3, 4, and 5, which brings you back to dot 1.
• Gently pull the thread to gather all the dots together.
• Secure the gather by stitching through a couple of the dots.
• Optionally, add a bead (e.g., a pearl) or a few extra stitches.
• Move to the next block of dots, starting at any point, and complete the circuit, ending at the starting dot.

With practice, your smocking process will become faster and more efficient.

3.4. Step 4: Start Smocking

I used fabric with a pre-existing design, eliminating the need to mark dots. Instead, I followed the tutorial by executing 5 stitches, then pulling a stitch to tighten. Afterward, I created a securing stitch to hold the design together and inserted a pearl for embellishment. To ensure the pearl remained firmly in place, I added an extra stitch. I’ve included a diagram to illustrate the appearance of the stitch, which becomes straightforward with practice. Just be sure to mark your fabric and verify its alignment. I began at one end and initially believed there was room at the top, but I later discovered my material wasn’t straight, resulting in the loss of a smocking row.

3.5. Step 5: Start Sewing

Sew the dress pieces together after completing the smocking. Begin by cutting out all the lining pieces and carefully trimming all sections of the dress, except for the smocked front piece, to avoid any risk of loosening stitches. Attach the front lining to the top of the dress at the neck and armholes, then trim any excess fabric and turn the piece inside out. Proceed by connecting the back pieces to the lining, and finally, sew the front and back together. Your dress top is now fully assembled and ready to wear.

3.6. Step 6: Sew the Skirt and Lining

Stitch the skirt lining and the outer skirt together. Next, gather both pieces by sewing a loose straight stitch and gently pulling the thread. Then, sew the lining to the lining and the main fabric to the main fabric, ensuring the right sides are facing each other. Finally, flip the skirt, and your dress is nearly complete.

3.7. Step 7: Sashes and Buttons

Cut two pieces for the sashes meant to be tied at the back. Fold and sew along the top and side edges. To turn the sashes right side out, I found using a pencil helpful. Once turned, sew them into the side seam. In my case, I had to slightly adjust the seam since I forgot to include them earlier in the process.

Next, create your buttonholes. If you have a machine with a buttonhole stitch, that can be quite handy. If not, you can opt for snaps and then sew buttons onto the top for a similar closure.

3.8. Step 8: Hem and Finish

Next, I proceeded to hem both the lining and the dress. For the dress, I opted for a small hand-stitched hem. It’s essential to hem the dress first before adjusting the lining’s length. If the lining turns out too long, you can trim it accordingly.

To add a special touch, my granddaughter requested a bow. I crafted a bow and even adorned it with a few pearls to create a cohesive look. I also incorporated a similar bow into her headband. I completed the dress just in time for her to wear to a friend’s wedding this weekend. She was thrilled with the dress, so it looks like I might have to make another one. It’s incredible what you’ll do for your grandchildren!

Read More: Top 10+ Best Bulk Wholesale Kids Clothing Suppliers

4. Why Smocked Baby Clothes Are So Popular

Smocked baby clothes have been popular for generations due to their timeless appeal, intricate detailing, and comfortable fit. Here are just a few reasons why smocked baby clothes continue to be a favorite choice for parents and gift-givers alike:

• Classic Design: Smocked baby clothes have a vintage charm and timeless elegance that appeals to many parents. These garments often feature intricate patterns and designs, making them a special choice for holidays, birthdays, and other special occasions. And as previously mentioned, smocking has been around for a long time, so this classic design will never go out of style.
• Handmade Quality: Many smocked baby clothes are handcrafted, which adds a personal touch to the clothing. Hand-smocked pieces can showcase a level of detail and craftsmanship that is not easily replicated by machine-made garments.
• Comfort: Smocking creates a stretchy, elastic-like area in the outfit, which allows for a comfortable fit that can grow with your baby. This makes smocked clothes practical, as they can accommodate a baby’s growth over several months. So, even if non-smocked baby clothes come at a lower price, smocked clothing can actually serve as a better investment, too.
• Distinction: Smocked baby clothes often feature various patterns, themes, and colors, which can be customized based on your personal preferences or the occasion. This allows for a unique and personalized clothing option for babies. From Christmas to birthday parties, smocking designs offer a distinct look that will always make a lasting impression.
• Durability: Smocked baby clothes are typically made from high-quality materials such as cotton or linen, which are known for their durability and breathability. These garments can be passed down through the generations, maintaining their charm and appeal over time. In fact, if you take good care of a smocked outfit, it could stay in mint condition for decades.
• Gift Appeal: Smocked baby clothes are thoughtful and unique gifts for new parents, baby showers, or christenings. The beauty and craftsmanship of these garments make them a special and memorable choice that will not be soon forgotten.

5. Smocked Baby Clothes Styles

While smocking refers to the design of a specific segment of a piece of clothing (often around the neckline or chest), smocked baby outfits can actually come in various styles and designs, including both casual and formal varieties. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular options from our Smocked Collection:

5.1. Smocked Dresses

Smocked dresses can come in many different shapes and sizes, from bishop dresses for infants to scalloped pearl dresses for toddlers. Regardless of the specific style you choose, smocked dresses allow you to adorn your little one in an intricate, gorgeous, hand-stitched outfit. Crafted from comfortable, high-quality materials, our heirloom smocked dresses will make your baby’s special moments even more memorable.

5.2. Bubbles

A bubble is a fun one-piece for babies that is often blousy and breathable around the middle. When you add a smocked segment, bubbles have an even better fit that is also great for photoshoots and special occasions. At Feltman Brothers, our smocked bubbles feature meticulously hand-embroidered designs and charming patterns. These outfits seamlessly blend elegance with practicality, creating an adorable and cherished addition to your baby’s wardrobe.

5.3. Creepers

Creepers offer a comfortable outfit choice for infants and small toddlers. Crafted from soft, high-quality fabrics, our beautiful smocked creepers help your little one look and feel amazing. With our extensive collection, you can enjoy the enduring appeal of smocked creepers, blending style and comfort for your little one.

5.4. Bobby Suits

A bobby suit is the equivalent of a two-piece romper that lets you customize the look and feel of your baby’s clothing. Smocking only makes bobby suits more versatile, giving you greater control over the fit and choler scheme of the outfit. If you choose a high-quality smocked bobby suit from Feltman Brothers, you can celebrate life’s special moments and create picture-perfect memories with your baby.

5.5. Longall

Similar to a jumper, the longall is a perfect fit for babies and a great outfit for cooler weather. With smocking, you get an even better shape for growing toddlers. If you’re currently looking for a long-sleeved outfit for your little one, be sure to try our delightful smocked longalls. They are perfect for special occasions or simply making everyday moments a little more beautiful.

5.6. Shortall

Are you looking for an upscale baby outfit that still has the versatility of cut-off shorts? If so, a smocked shortall is the perfect solution for you. At Feltman Brothers, we offer smocked shortalls in varying sizes and colors, giving you lots to choose from. Plus, the intricacy of the embroidered patterns will really make your baby stand out in family photos.

6. Where to buy wholesale hand smocked dresses?

If you are interested in buying wholesale hand smocked dresses for girls, then you’ve come to the right place. K-Embroidery with more than 25+ years of experience as a leading manufacturer specializing in providing hand smocked clothing products is a great suggestion for you.

6.1. K-Embroidery – Vietnamese hand smocked kids clothing factory

City & Country: Ha Noi, Vietnam.

Established Year: 1996

K-Embroidery specializes in creating high-end handmade products and exporting over the world. This is one of the largest embroidery companies in Vietnam with a large and professional team of workers, and the ability to produce up to 250,000 pieces/month. When buying wholesale hand smocked kids clothing at K-Embroidery, you can be completely assured because this is a reputable business, with many prestigious awards and certificates in the industry.
Featured products: Hand smocked and embroidered dresses & outfits for kids, hand embroidered napkins, coasters, tablecloths,…

Pros and cons: K-Embroidery is a smocked wholesale supplier with a professional sales team. Low MOQ (from only 30 pieces) and reasonable prices (from only $13-$19), very accessible for fashion startups or those who intend to experiment with new designs. In addition, this is also one of the few smocked manufacturers that allows you to customize products at no additional cost. However, their production time can be up to 35-45 days for large orders, and the ready to ship list is also limited, so it may not be suitable if you want to own goods quickly.

Contact Infor:

• Address: 169 Nguyen Ngoc Vu Street, Trung Hoa Ward, Cau Giay District, Ha Noi, Vietnam
• WhatsApp: +84 85 555 5961
• Email: info@k-embroidery.com
• Website: k-embroidery.com

6.2. Little Cherry Smock – Cheapest wholesale supplier kids clothing

City & Country: Ha Noi, Vietnam

Established Year: 2020

Little Cherry Smock is a famous garment factory in Hanoi, Vietnam specializing in hand-embroidered & smocked clothing for children. Founded in 2020 by Jessi Nguyen with humble beginnings, but we believe that being a smaller operation allows us to focus on the finer details, ensuring each piece of clothing we create is made with love and care.
Featured products: Girls smocked dresses, girls smocked bubbles, girls smocked 2 piece sets, sleepwears, boys longalls, shortalls, boys sets,…

Pros and cons: We are wholesale smocked children’s clothing. Although we do not sell directly to consumers, our commitment to quality ensures that our garments can be found in many fine retail stores globally.

Contact Infor:

• Address: 71 Nguyen Chi Thanh, Ba Dinh, Ha Noi, Viet Nam
• Email: info@littlecherrysmocked.com
• WhatsApp: (+84) 855 555 490
• Website: littlecherrysmocked.com

6.3. Babeeni – Wholesale supplier of hand smocked children’s clothing

City & Country: Ha Noi, Vietnam.

Established Year: 2007

Babeeni is one of the famous smocked kids clothing manufacturers in Vietnam. This is a familiar wholesale supplier of many big brands in the US and UK. With 17 years of experience in the industry, Babeeni has built a fairly strong brand. Their handmade products are always highly accurate, beautiful and trendy. In addition, the diverse product catalog is definitely a good choice if you want to start a smocked bussiness.
Featured products: Hand smocked & applique clothing for girls, boys and infants by events and holidays. There are also hand embroidered homewears, swimwears, accessories,…

Pros and cons: Babeeni is known for its high-quality, hand-embroidered garments that often feature intricate details and traditional craftsmanship. Their products are popular for their elegant, royal-inspired designs. However, the high MOQ requirement (from 100 pieces) and high price (from $17-$25) are what prevent many customers from accessing this wholesale supplier.

Contact Infor:

• Address: No. 66 Viet Hung, Long Bien, Ha Noi Viet Nam
• Telephone: +84-823.776.668/ +84.1800 646 786
• Website: babeeni.com

7. Some outstanding products of K – Embroidery

Below are some of our most typical products, which are always popular and receive positive feedback from customers:

7.1. Smocked Bishop Dress

A common advantage of bishop dresses is that they seem to fit better than any other style of dress. To have an authentic smocked bishop dress, they must be hand-smocked from the neckline out to the shoulders with raglan sleeves. The front, back, and shoulders are all smocked at the same time, creating a decorative round yoke. That is why K-Embroidery products always win the trust of customers.

7.2. Smocked Sundress

Sundresses are commonly crafted from airy and lightweight materials such as cotton, silk, or linen, making them ideal for warm and humid conditions. Typically sleeveless or adorned with thin straps, these dresses are tailored for hot weather comfort. Smocked sundresses come in various hemlines, ranging from mini to full-length, although midi to maxi lengths are the most prevalent. Additionally, sundresses offer diverse neckline options, including wide necklines, v-necks, scoop necks, or halters, providing a range of choices for different styles and preferences.

7.3. Holiday dress

For special occasions like Christmas, Easter, Valentine’s Day,… K-Embroidery always offers special smocked dress models. We also have Spring Catalog, Summer Collection,… always ready. Therefore, contact us now or fill out the information form below the article to receive a free consultation!

 

May you so like: Red Smocked Rompers: Top 10 The Most Beautiful

So the above article has explained what is a smocked dress. Hope we have brought readers useful information. Hello and see you again in the next articles!

Contact K-Embroidery manager to buy high quality, cute and safe hand-sewn products for children via WhatsApp: +84855555961 to get the best price and order now!

Contact:

• Address: 5th Floor, Building No. 169 Nguyen Ngoc Vu, Cau Giay District, Hanoi
• Hotline: +84855555961
• Website: https://k-embroidery.com/
• WhatsApp: +84855555961