Maxi Dress Wardrobe Staple - Dart Rotation M7386 and M6559

Now that I've shared many of the major events and activities of my birthday celebration, I'm back to playing catch up with my sewing projects from the summer.  Sometimes it is a challenge to take the photos and organize them.  

So let me get started with two maxi dresses that I made in August.  Both dresses are really easy to make.  The first is a "Learn to Sew for Fun" pattern. The second pattern that I used may be OOP. There are so many options for hacking or making changes to either pattern to suit your own taste or design preference.  

One of the major adjustments that I almost always make is a FBA, which I made for these two dresses.  Before I start with all the changes, let me provide some of the basic information about the two dresses.

Pattern Descriptions:

M7386 -  McCall's gives a really basic description:  Pullover top, dresses and pull-on skirts have narrow hem.  One of  my favorite elements of the design is the fishtail skirt of the maxi dress.

 M6559 - Close-fitting, unlined jacket in two lengths has front extending into single-layer tie ends (wrong side shows).  Very close-fitting, pullover dresses.

Pattern Sizing:

M7386 - Size groupings (XS, S, M and L, XL, XXL)

M6559 - Size groupings (6-14 and 14-22)

I used what would be large and size 16, respectively.  And, of course, I made some modifications.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

The silhouette is basically the same. 

Were the instructions easy to follow?

The instructions are simple.  Any level sewist should be able to follow them with no problems

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

With my changes, my likes are the ruching in the bust area, the fishtail skirt, and the finishing of the bands at the neck and armholes.

Fabric Used:

My knit fabric is from Hobby Lobby.  It is a spongy knit, similar to Liverpool knit.  It was very easy to work with.  Before cutting into it, I pre-washed and dried it. 

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

the adjustment is made for the length of the front and back pattern pieces.

#1 dress - animal print (M7386). 

• FBA and Dart Rotation - For this dress I used M7386 front and back.  The FBA was made to rotate the dart to the center front to create ruching at the bust area.  This eliminates the bust dart all together.  I've posted a tutorial years ago if you are interested in the steps to do the dart rotation.  Here 
• This process is pretty easy to follow.  Once I did the dart rotation, I just added seam allowance to the center front.
• Neck and armhole band -  I simply measured the circumference of  each for the length of the band minus 2 to 3 inches depending on the stretch of the fabric.  The width of the bands 2".  The ends of the bands were sewn together (3/8" seam allowance) to create a circle.  Then attached to the appropriate areas using a 5/8" seam allowance; trimmed after sewing.  Then top-stitched for a nice finish.
• Broad shoulder adjustment - I added width across the back.
• Swayback - horizontal tuck across the back at the waist.
• Length - I also have to add length. Lol  Just a few inches so that the dress is truly a maxi dress.
• I did do some tweaking along the way.  The added width across all areas isn't needed throughout the entire dress.  So I adjusted as needed taking in larger seam allowances.

#2  dress rust Solid (M6559) 

• I used the front of M7386.  But for the back I wanted a racerback.  So, I used the top of M6559.  And to keep the skirt silhouette of M7386, I overlaid the skirt back of M7386 folding and tucking the rest of the pattern out of the cutting path.  No need to retrace unless you really want to.  Lol.  So the skirt (fishtail) was the same for the front and back.  All other adjustments were the same.  I did need to add a center back seam.  The center back seam helps with getting that close fit at the small of my back.
• All other changes are the same as M7386.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Sure.  This is a quick and easy dress, a wardrobe staple.  It has many style options, which can be worn well into fall with cardigans, jackets, shrugs, or a knit t-shirt underneath.

I recommend these patterns to all level sewists.

Conclusion:  Both patterns are easy to sew for all level sewists.  It is versatile and stylish.  

Happy Sewing!

C

 

Red Sequins Maxi-Dress - M7119

I couldn't tell you why it took me so long to finish this maxi-dress.  It was in a bag in a box with ten other UFO's that I had cut and made ready to sew.  I was beyond happy when I finally finished it last week.  2018 is actually when I had planned to make the dress.  That's a long time to leave this beauty undone.

 Ranata of The Twilight Stitcher hosted a little red dress challenge (Instragram) in December 2020.  I didn't even start sewing it together.  Christmas gifts took up all my sewing time. Before I knew it, February had rolled around and gone.  Next target month was March; then finally April for the Maxi-Dress Mother's Day challenge hosted by Crystal Sews and Stuff and Crumpets Tea and Sewing, both on Instragam.  So I made it this time!

With that said, here is my review.  In hindsight, I should have done a "Notes on a Pattern" for the fit adjustments.

McCall M7119

This pattern is OOP.  Many have made it.  There are quite a few photos posted on the net.  Anyway, the pattern description:  Misses' Dresses:  Wrap dresses have bands, fitted bodice, gathered back, neckline, tie ends, skirt (semi-fitted through the hips) variations, and narrow hem.  A, B: Bias armhole facings B: Shaped hemline, wrong side shows. C: short sleeves. D: Elasticized sleeve. C, D:  Gathered sleeve cap.

Pattern sizing are 6 to 22.  I used 16 with modifications.  Lots of modifications. Lol.

I really love how this dress turned out. My version is a cross between views C and D. Basically, it is view C with long sleeves. The instructions were typical, but easy to follow.  Nothing in them confusing.

There are so many things I like about this style of this dress.  They are:

• Wrap dresses are flattering for my figure. ;-) 
• The gathering at the neckline and the sleeves
• Skirt waist.  It defines my waist or lack there of. Lol
• The neckband.  Makes it easy to adjust the neckline. No gapping.
• So easy to make and it looks great.

Dislikes - None

The fabric is from Mood Fabrics, item #319054.  They may or may not still have it if you are interested.  It's a moderate stretch knit with sequins rectangles throughout the fabric.  

My pattern adjustments were mainly to the bodice.  This is were my greatest fit challenges are.  Truth be told, this one felt like I redrafted the entire front bodice.  The adjustments are:

• Full bust adjustment, which created a waist dart.
• Moved the bust dart down about 2 inches.
• Two small tucks to keep the neckline from gapping, done to both front bodice and neckband.
• Lengthen the bodice by about an inch or so.  I wanted to make sure it came to my waist.
• Prominent shoulder blades adjustment to the back bodice.
• Lengthen the skirt by a few inches.

I will definitely make this dress again.  It sewed up in about five hours.  No buttons or zipper.  Easy.  I also, recommend it to others.  It is a great little dress for all seasons and occasions depending on your fabric choice.

I'm so pleased with how it turned out, it is one more UFO finished!  

Happy Sewing!

Cennetta

P.S. - My necklace and earrings are made by my DD. ;-)

Vogue 8921 In Black-Metallic Gold Foil African-Inspired Stretch Velour

This is one of four projects that I'd hoped to finish before the end of 2017.  I barely made it finishing the hem on December 30th around mid-night.   This fabric is definitely the speaker.  No need for a lot of details to show it off.  So I decided to make another version of  Vogue 8921, view C, the first time I used this pattern was in 2014.

Forgive if the photo quality is not the best.  It is brutally cold in Illinois.  So no outdoor picture.  No way, no how.

My goal was to have this dress finished before Thanksgiving, in time for the holiday season.  But luck would have it, I missed the mark on making sure the pattern was consist on both side of the front bodice.  So last month I had to order another yard to re-cut the front bodice.  What was suppose to be quick and easy, turned into some tedious ripping out and replacing.  Once it was all done, it was a piece of cake. ;-)

First front bodice

Mood still has the fabric available on the website:  Black and Metallic Gold Foil African-Inspired Stretch Velour.  If you decide to try it, you won't be disappointed.  It has a soft and fuzzy hand.  The glossy finish speaks elegance.  You can make a super easy dress or some fancy pants.  Both will be a very easy sewing project.  My dress wears like my best pj's.  Easy on the skin and it lays gently against the body.

I did post a few pictures before my review.  First, because I wanted to include this dress in Moods LBD2017 Instagram challenge.  So this is one of two reviews that I will do this month for the network.  This black velour is a beautiful textile that should not go unnoticed.  So I did not to miss this chance to share my project and write a review.  

I had my usual adjustments with the addition of rising the front neckline about three inches and installing the invisible zipper closure at the edge of the center back of the neckline.  No hook and eye needed.  Because the zipper has inter-locking teeth, it does not roll down.

It was a bit of a challenge to get the print placement the same on both sides of the front.  I really think it is uneven as far as the spacing.  But the new front bodice halves are close to a mirror image and that was good enough for me this time. ;-)

I'm happy I finally finished the dress.  It is hanging in my closet, ready for the next appropriate social event to wear it.

That's all for now.

Happy Sewing!
C

Mixed Blue Abstract Rayon Jersey and My Favorite Maxi Dress M6700

Changing up on the print is good sometimes.  So instead of my favorite print (floral), I chose this great geometric rayon jersey.  I wanted a quick, easy cute dress to wear to the Toni Braxton concert.

My all time favorite, a McCall super easy and super cute maxi dress.  I made it twice before and thought it would be the perfect match for this awesome jersey print.  This dress takes about two hours to make.  My previous reviews are here and here.

It's 54 inches wide.  I ordered only three yards, not enough for a belt.  So I wore a silver belt to complete the look.

Not much more to say about this dress. Love it.

Happy Sewing!
C

Another Maxi - McCall's 6700

It's been too long since my last post.  I'm having a hard time getting back into the sting of things.  At this point I wondered if it was worth posting those garments made during the winter.  It's almost summer.  Anyway, this is the most recent project finished about three weeks ago.

Another maxi (McCall's 6700).  The fabric was purchased at Vogue.  It's a ITY knit.  I grabbed the last three yards of it about two months ago.

No new construction changes.  Just another view of this popular maxi.

Parting Shots:  My badge from the InfoEd conference that I attended last month.  The conference was held at Disney World, Orlando, Florida.  The conference was great.  For fun, InfoEd provided a bunch of labels to add to your badge.  Of course I got carried away with the idea and decided to add six to my badge.  Seriously, I learned a lot and will be able to use the information in our upcoming server build and upgrade project.  Oh yeah, DD and I had fun at one of our favorite vacation spots.

 

DD and me at Disney's Animal Kingdom!  Lions, Tigers and Bears OH MY!!!

Have a Great Day! C

McCall's 6700 - The "It" Maxi Dress of 2013

Last year's "It" maxi was M6559. Everyone made it at least two times. All I did was buy the pattern two times. Anyway, it too shall be reviewed soon.

This review is about McCall's latest "It" maxi dress, M6700. I've seen at least five gorgeous maxi dresses on PR and in blog land. Each one a winner, and I would love to have (in my size of course). Wink, wink. So I moved this to the very top of the list, pushing aside all those UFO's sitting in the closet.  

Pattern Description:
MISSES' DRESS AND BELT: Pullover dress has fitted, mock wrap bodice, shoulder ties, elasticized shoulders and raised (seamed) waist, fitted, narrow hem, thread carriers and self belt. This is a Fashion Star pattern that can be used to design a top or knee length dress. So there are some additional options to take advantage of if a maxi dress is not your style.

Pattern Sizing:
8 to 24; I used 14 with modifications.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
You bet it did. I noticed that the armhole come pretty high on the model, which is a good thing. The pattern is also drafted with a high armhole, but I added my usual 3/4 inch just in case. In retrospect, I think I'll not add for the next version just to give a little move. Mind you, it's not tight, just a little higher than necessary.

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Very simple to follow. A beginner would have no problem making this dress. Very simple.
 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
Oh my goodness, what is there not to like. My likes: - Mock wrap bodice - shoulder ties - fullness of the skirt - easy to sew - design options - versatility of wear; dress it up or down - cute summer dress No dislikes.  


Fabric Used:
I purchased this knit from Gorgeous Fabrics about a year ago. Ann called it Purple Haze; when I read the name, it reminded me of Jimi Hendrix's song of the same title. I bought it to make different dress, but changed my mind when I decided to move this dress to the top of the list. It's perfect for it.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
Although this dress has some wearing ease, I still made my usual FBA. I did not want to take a chance with having fit issues in the bust and shoulder blade areas. It was necessary.
 - FBA - The FBA added about 2" to the width of the dress, which I did not need. To get it to fit the width of the front skirt, I folded a 1" pleat at the waist below the apex. For the skirt, I cut it 1" wider to absorb the rest of the width. Once attached and the elastic inserted, the pleat disappears into the gathers formed by the elasticized waist.
 - Prominent Shoulder Blades -NOTE: The front and back skirt are one pattern. If you do not make any width adjustments to the back, cut them separately to ensure the appropriate length for each section of the waist.
 - In the sewing directions for the ties, #8 - slipstitch the ends together. I didn't follow this. I sewed cross one end of each tie; pivot; then sewed the long end together; trim at the corner. Then I used my loop turner to turn the tie to the right side. If you don't have a loop turner, it is a good idea to get one. It makes sewing ties and straps easy.
 - For the narrow hem at the lower edge of the dress, I used steam a seam to help stabilize the hem while sewing. I love this stuff and always use it on hems of my knit garments.
 - Loops for the belt. I prefer fabric loops to the thread loops. So I used the width of the tie as a guide for the thickness of the belt loops. The length of the piece of fabric was about six inches long. After sewing I cut two loops about 2 1/2" long and attached them to the sides of the waist where the bodice and skirt are joined. Then I stitched the side closest to the dress along the side seam of the skirt so the loops would not stick out from the side of the dress.
 - I did not have enough fabric to make the belt as suggested. So I made the best of the straps. I was able to cut two belt halves and join them to make a belt long enough to get a similar look as on the pattern illustration.

 
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes and yes. I cut the second dress the day after I made this one. It's ready to sew. This is a easy pattern to try for a great summer maxi.

Conclusion: This is definitely the "It" maxi dress pattern of the season. This dress is super cute and a beginner can whip it up in no time. I highly recommend it, short or long.

More Reviews to come.
Happy Sewing!
C