“A pattern is only the beginning”

Denice Kae -

I am originally from the Philippines and currently living in the UAE, where I am building my own small bespoke dressmaking business.

I created The Evergreen for my client, Orsolya, as her Mother of the Groom dress. I used Dressmaking Academy’s free Cocktail Pattern as my starting point and adjusted it specifically to fit Orsolya’s body, proportions and comfort.

From that foundation, I developed the design into my own interpretation, creating a structured fitted bodice with a dropped waist, internal support, layered tulle and soft off-the-shoulder detailing.

One of my proudest moments was seeing how a pattern could become something completely personal for the woman wearing it. I was especially proud of achieving a balance between structure and softness, as well as the hand-stitched pleating across the bodice, which helped me shape and control the tulle to create the soft finish I wanted. The dress needed to feel secure and comfortable for Orsolya while still looking feminine, elegant and effortless.

This project helped me understand that a pattern is only the beginning. The real work is in understanding the woman who will wear the garment, adjusting the fit to her body, and making construction and design decisions specifically for her.

Dressmaking Academy’s Cocktail Pattern gave me the foundation, but The Evergreen became my own through the fitting, construction and design choices I made for Orsolya.

[...] I have a particular love for corsetry, and I would love to broaden my knowledge and understanding of structure, fit and couture construction. I know that developing these skills would help me grow as a dressmaker, strengthen my confidence as a designer, and support the continued growth of my business.

For me, The Evergreen was my couture breakthrough — the moment I realised I was no longer simply following a pattern, but designing for the woman wearing it.

Denice Kae Atelier

Abu Dhabi, UAE