Ok, I re-read the pattern, let's see if this helps you.
You know how to work the V st, the loop is where you would add the ruffle row later. So think in terms of working the V st, then right there, work the loop...you have the Vst, (refer to the stitch guide in the pattern for exact stitch count) make the chain for the loop, sc in the first chain made, the chain directly after the last dc of the Vst. and that is your loop. Keep working the pattern, after making the loops, completely skipping them after working them, (the idea is similar to a picot), continuing around the row.
So you have the row with the Vsts and the loops, keep working this layer, still skipping the loops, pretend they are not there.
When this layer is done, move onto the next layer and you will use those unworked loops for starting the next ruffle.
Its a unique way to work this ruffle dress and allows movement of the final product without the stiffness of usual crochet.
Please let us know if this helps some, the designer is out of town today but will see this as soon as she gets back.