White Lattice - Broderie Anglaise Viscose Dress Fabric

Broderie anglaise is the white summer classic: little cut-out holes with stitched edges, a bit like lace but crisper. Most versions are stiff cotton. This one is viscose, so it keeps the pretty cut-out detail and adds a soft, fluid drape. The result looks delicate and modern, and it moves much more than you’d expect.

Why it belongs in your summer sewing

White broderie is made for holidays. It’s the blouse you pack for the beach café, the dress for a christening or a garden party, the skirt that looks good with a tan. The fabric is lightweight and soft, and the openwork means it feels light to wear and looks light too, which is half the appeal on a hot day. White also reflects the sun and pairs with everything.

Seeing through it

The cut-outs mean this fabric is open, and the skin underneath will show through the holes. That’s part of the charm, but it’s worth planning. For dresses and skirts, line it or wear a slip in white, nude or a colour you love. A contrast lining, such as pale pink, yellow or blue, can look lovely through the eyelets. For blouses, a camisole underneath works well.

What to make

• Blouses and tops: peasant blouses, smock tops and camisoles
• Dresses: tiered sundresses, tea dresses, shirt dresses and smocked styles
• Skirts: gathered, tiered and A-line skirts over a lining
• Layering pieces: overshirts, lightweight jackets and kimonos worn over a vest top

Sewing tips

• Wash gently before cutting, as viscose can shrink
• Choose a fine, sharp needle and a medium stitch length
• Cut the pieces with sharp scissors, and plan seams so they run between the cut-outs where you can
• Press on a low heat from the reverse, with a pressing cloth, and take care around the cut-out edges

• Width: 140cm/55" (approx)
• Composition: 100% Viscose
• Fabric Type: Viscose, broderie anglaise
• Colour: White

✔Machine washable at 30°C or lower, on a gentle cycle, in a wash bag if you have one
✔Wash with similar light colours
✔Do not use bleach
✔Do not tumble dry
✔Dry flat or line dry in the shade
✔Iron on a low heat, on the reverse
✔Always test a small sample first to check your preferred washing method

Viscose is made from plant-based cellulose, and this fabric is made to be worn and washed for years. Choosing a well-made fabric with a timeless detail, and caring for it gently, helps your handmade wardrobe last.