August is that in-between month—summer’s still hanging on, but there’s a gentle hint of fall in the air. It’s the perfect time to sneak in a few more breezy makes while also starting to plan for cooler days ahead. Whether you're stitching during a quiet weekend at home or squeezing in some creative time before back-to-school chaos kicks in, having the right patterns on hand makes all the difference.

In this post, we’ve rounded up the 10 best sewing patterns for August—cool enough for warm days, simple enough to enjoy sewing, and versatile enough to wear more than once. From relaxed tops to well-fitting dresses and easy bottoms, these patterns are made to fit your pace this month. All patterns are Instant Download PDFs with A0, A4/US Letter, Projector files and a handy Sewing Guide included.

Let’s dive into this month’s must-makes!

1. Tulip Braided Halter Top

The Tulip Braided Halter Top is the kind of piece you’ll want to wear all August long. It has a pretty braided halter neckline, a soft draped front, and a keyhole back that gives it just the right touch of detail. It's light, playful, and perfect for layering over high-waisted skirts or trousers. For the best results, go for lightweight woven fabrics like rayon, crepe, or soft cotton to get that elegant drape and comfortable fit.

👉 Get the Tulip Halter Top pattern here


2. Donna Shirred Dress

The Donna Shirred Dress is a lovely pick for when you're ready to ease into late summer and early fall. With its full-length sleeves, comfy shirred bodice, and softly flared skirt, it’s both flattering and fun to wear. The elastic shirring gives it a great fit without needing zippers or buttons—perfect for an easy sewing project. Light to medium-weight woven fabrics like cotton voile, rayon, or lightweight lawn work best to keep the dress breathable while showing off the gathers.

👉 Get the Donna Dress pattern here


3. Maple Cottagecore Maxi Skirt

The Maple Cottagecore Maxi Skirt is a dream if you love soft, floaty silhouettes with a touch of vintage charm. It features a flattering belted waist, a button-down front, and a gently ruffled hem that moves beautifully as you walk. It’s easy to style with tucked-in tops or light blouses, and it works well for both everyday wear and slow weekends. For best results, use woven fabrics like cotton, chambray, or soft linen to bring out the flow and structure of the skirt.

👉 Get the Maple Skirt pattern here


4. Margot Wide Leg Belted Trousers

The Margot Trousers are perfect for when you want something relaxed but still put-together. The high-waisted fit gives a flattering shape, while the wide legs keep things airy and comfortable for warmer days. The self-tie belt adds a polished touch, and they pair easily with both casual tees and dressier tops. Medium-weight woven fabrics like cotton twill, linen blends, or soft denim work best to hold the shape without feeling too heavy.

👉 Get the Margot Trousers pattern here


5. Dusk Halter Neck Vest

The Dusk Halter Neck Vest is a bold yet elegant piece that’s perfect for late-summer nights out. It features a sleek halter neckline, a completely open back, and a tailored waist that gives it a flattering, structured look. You can wear it solo for a statement or layer it under a jacket when the evening cools down. To get that sharp finish, go for medium-weight woven fabrics like suiting, cotton sateen, or linen with a bit of structure.

👉 Get the Dusk Vest pattern here


6. Nadia Biker Shorts

The Nadia Biker Shorts are a comfy, active essential for August. With a high-waisted fit and a wide waistband, they stay in place whether you're running errands, working out, or just relaxing at home. They're quick to sew and even quicker to become your go-to pair. This pattern is designed for knit fabrics—look for stretch cotton, spandex blends, or activewear jersey for a snug, supportive feel.

👉 Get the Nadia Shorts pattern here


7. Skye Long Sleeves Swimsuit

The Skye Long Sleeves Swimsuit is a great pick if you're spending August by the water but still want extra coverage and support. With a sporty fit, high neckline, front zipper, and contrast raglan sleeves, it’s practical without giving up style. It’s designed for active days—whether you're swimming, surfing, or just soaking up the sun. Use stretch swimwear fabric or nylon-spandex blends to get the best fit and performance.

👉 Get the Skye Swimsuit pattern here


8. Heather Midi Dress

The Heather Midi Dress is a beautiful choice for when the weather starts to shift toward cooler evenings. With long sleeves, a soft V-neckline, and a gathered waist, it’s flattering, easy to wear, and works well for both casual days and dressier occasions. It’s a great piece to carry you from late summer into early fall. Light to medium-weight woven fabrics like rayon, cotton lawn, or crepe will give the dress a lovely drape and movement.

👉 Get the Heather Dress pattern here


9. Harper Coord Set

The Harper Coord Set is perfect for those warm August days when you want to feel stylish without overthinking your outfit. It features a structured crop top paired with high-waisted shorts, complete with cute button details that add a polished finish. Wear the pieces together for a put-together look, or mix and match them with other staples in your wardrobe. This set works best with medium-weight woven fabrics like cotton, linen, or denim for a crisp, structured fit.

👉 Get the Harper Coord Set pattern here


10. Sage Short Sleeve Shirt

The Sage Short Sleeve Shirt is a fun twist on a classic. With its clean point collar, short sleeves, and full-button placket, it’s perfect for experimenting with prints, color blocking, or contrast stitching. Whether you’re sewing it for yourself or someone else, it’s a great everyday piece that works dressed up or down. Lightweight woven fabrics like cotton poplin, linen, or even cotton blends will give it that crisp and comfy finish.

👉 Get the Sage Shirt pattern here


Summary

That’s our roundup of the 10 best sewing patterns for August—styles you can wear now, enjoy making, and keep reaching for even as the season shifts. Whether you're planning weekend projects or refreshing your handmade wardrobe, these patterns are a great place to start.

👉 For more summer styles, click here
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Katie Goodwin