Hi There Folks,

Well, winter continues on here. I can’t complain too much: the winter so far in this corner of the world has been relatively mild. But it’s still quite cold, wet and windy. I wanted a couple of casual, throw on dresses that I could layer over tights and boots. And also, more loose fitting in style.

Enter McCalls 6885. This is described as a semi-fitted pullover dress, which should have a collar and collar/ front button bands. You will notice on my version that I decided to omit the collar to give a more grandad style collar.

Here’s the back view. I decided to add the waist ties, which I made from self fabric. Those fabric ties were designed by the devil himself. I spent more than an hour trying to turn them the right way round (using a pair of tweezers!) and my ties are shorter than the pattern indicates. Just saying. You will also notice I added a back yoke with some topstitching.

Here’s the inside of the yoke, which I cut from cotton.

I decided to add hammer on denim buttons. I wish I had thought more about my thread colours. I did the topstitching in brown, but the seams (and subsequent buttonholes) were sewn in white. Ah well. I also flat fell seamed the arm seam that gets folded over.

I actually love wearing this. It’s just so easy to pull on and go. I love the loose, casual fit and the very soft denim. I wish I had been able to get it in a darker wash, but this is all my local market had. Next time!

Pattern Review

Pattern Description:

Semi-fitted, pullover dresses have collar, collar/front bands, front pleat and narrow hem. C: purchased belt. D: pockets, tie ends and long sleeves with button tab. Shaped hemline B, C and rolled sleeves D: wrong side shows. Lined hat has top, crown and brim.

I made view D.

Pattern Sizing:

8 – 24

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

Yes. Although I omitted the collar.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Yes.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I love the loose casual fit and the pullover style. I can see this dress being made in so many different fabrics. Nothing to dislike. Although be warned, the sides of this view are very short. If I was going to make this to wear in the summer and wanted the shaped sides I would lengthen.

Fabric Used:

A very soft, lightweight denim.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

I added a back yoke.

I did a 1 inch sway back adjustment.

I shortened the sleeve length by an inch?

I omitted the collar.

I flat fell seamed the sleeve seam that gets turned over.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Yes and yes.

Conclusion:

This is such a great casual dress pattern to have in your collection that can be made for year round wear. I love it!

What do you think? Are you a fan of the looser, tunic style?

Have a great rest of the weekend!