Zimasa Dress by Noma Ndlovu

Zimasa Dress

Knitting
October 2026
DK (11 wpi) ?
22 stitches and 32 rows = 4 inches
in stockinette
US 6 - 4.0 mm
US 3 - 3.25 mm
US 2½ - 3.0 mm
782 - 2012 yards (715 - 1840 m)
English
This pattern is available for $9.00 USD buy it now

The Zimasa Dress has a 20% introductory discount which is valid until Sunday, 4 October 2026. No coupon code required.

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The Zimasa Dress is a timeless, top-down knit designed with soft structure and effortless movement in mind.
It begins at the neckline and is worked seamlessly downwards, featuring a flattering V-neck and set-in sleeves that create a clean, tailored fit through the shoulders. The upper body is designed with 0–2 inches (0–5 cm) of positive ease, allowing it to sit close to the body without feeling restrictive, before gently transitioning into a softly flared skirt that moves naturally with wear.
A defining detail of the design is the intentional binding off just under the bust and again just before the frill section. This subtle construction choice adds decorative interest while also reinforcing the fabric for better shape retention and durability.
The Zimasa Dress includes an option for long sleeves, making it adaptable across seasons and climates—whether layered for cooler months or worn lighter in transitional weather. The dress has a double knitted belt and I-cord loops are used to keep the belt secure.
It is originally designed using 100% organic cotton yarn for breathability and a clean, modern drape, but the pattern is fully versatile. It works beautifully in any DK weight yarn, including plant fibres, animal fibres, or blends, allowing knitters to adapt the fabric feel and finish to their preference.
Elegant, adaptable, and thoughtfully constructed, the Zimasa Dress is a versatile wardrobe piece designed for everyday wear with a refined silhouette.

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Materials:
12 (14, 16, 17, 20, 21, 24, 26, 28, 30) 50g balls Nurturing Fibres Eco Cotton DK 100% Organic Cotton approx. 125m / 136 yds. Colour: Earth 715 (825, 945, 1045, 1200, 1285, 1455, 1610, 1740, 1840) m / 775 (900, 1030, 1135, 1305, 1395, 1585, 1755, 1890, 2005) yards
Any preferred DK weight yarn may be used for the project.

Size A - US 6 (4.0 mm) circular needles 32” (80 cm) long (longer needles up to 60” (150 cm) may be needed for skirt and frill & 16” (40 cm) long needles may be needed for sleeves
Size B - US 3 (3.25 mm) circular needles 16” (40 cm) long (I-cord neck edge)
Size C - US 2.5 (3.0 mm) circular needles 24” (60 cm) long (belt)
Yarn needle
Stitch marker
Gauge: 22 stitches and 32 rows in stockinette on US6(4.0 mm) needles = 4” (10 cm) after blocking
Finished Bust Measurements: 28 (32.25, 36, 39.75, 44, 47.75, 52, 55.75, 60, 63.75)“
71 (82, 91.5, 101, 112, 121.5, 132, 141.5, 152.5, 162) cm
(See last two images for detailed measurements and schematic)

Sample: The sample has a 44” finished bust measurement and is modelled on a 43” bust. Recommended Ease is 0 – 2” / 0 – 5 cm