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Twiluv 42: Mccalls 6754 Pattern Review

This week I am reviewing Mccall 6754, also featured is my new double knit stripe skirt made from Mccall 6654.

Fabric for the skirt can be found here, you only need a yard. 

Pattern Description:

Close-fitting and flared top, elasticized (seamed) waist, and narrow hems.

 Pattern Sizing:

I made size Med size 12-14

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

Yes, exactly.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Yes

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

Likes

1. I like that the pattern was drafted for knit fabrics so I didn't have to worry about the sizing using a woven alternative.

2. I like the raglan sleeves, gives a nice soft shoulder

3. I like that the flounce lies nicely against the body it doesn't stick out and add volume.

4. I like the length, it above my natural hipline.

5. Its a quick so

Dislikes

I have no dislikes

Fabric Used:  Double knit from Metro Textiles NYC

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: No alterations or design changes.

I didn't add the elastic because I didn't see the need for it.

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

I would recommend it and yes I would sew it again.

I would advise that you sew the neckline slowly, make sure not to stretch as you stitch.

Ideas from Dress Barn

I must admit, I've never bought a dress from Dress Barn.
One time I went in to check out a dress because they were having a $39.99 sale on all dresses and when I turned the dress over
to check the seams, it was a hot mess.
I've never went back into the store after that, it was years ago so I don't know what the quality is like today.
But, I still think their designs and fabrics are cute and seeing that I sew, it makes for great inspiration

Belted Vertical Colorblock Dress

I like it because it remains me of candy. I love those colors and the silhouette of this dress, I will flatter most.

Roz & Ali two tone striped Maxi skirt

Here is something that is underrated but would be a quick sew and a well worn summer piece, a simple striped maxi.
This morning I saw this photo while scrolling through bloglovin and I thought that it would be a great style idea for this skirt with the denim jacket and bright sandals. Easy!

Belted Graduated Stripe Maxi Dress

Of course I like the print, I like that the black stripes are more condensed around the hipline and the contrast bias binding at the neckline

Watercolor Maxi Dress

I like that the midriff is very broad which takes away from getting that maternal look at the waistline, love the print too.

Solid Side Draped Dress

Looks like 1250 but there are gathers on the side same. I have another one cut out and ready to go, have to block out some time for that.

Geometric Belted Dress

I love the mixed print on this sheath dress, they used the bigger one for the curvy areas and the small one for the slimmer parts of the body, great tip to use when choosing fabrics for a mix print dress.

Pre-Fall 2013: Jason Wu

If you want proof of how fast and furious the trickle down factor flows from designer to mainstream stores, I have a good example for you.

View Full Collection Here.

One of the major features of Jason Wu’s pre-fall collection was this diagonal stripe pattern on a few of the following looks like this one and this is a top I just purchased from JC Penney a few days ago. I started seeing this print back in early march when I saw a maxi in NY&Company and I’m sure you will be noticing it in your neck of the words now that I’ve pointed it out.

Btw, I like the diagonal stripe print, its more figure flattering that just the horizontal version so it will flatter most.

I like this whole look, from the hairstyle to the shoes, wow, love those shoes and the skinny belt, I’m a bigger fan of color-blocking on the other edges, but it’s a cute fit and flare dress.

This is another cute look, silky tie front shirts never go out of style, I think I would like it more with a black leather blazer, this jacket is boxy.

I like the combination of the different fabrics on the blouse and this is very double. I think the hardest part would be to figure out what fabric to use alongside the leather and silk georgette for the upper bodice.

Leather fit and flare dress, wow, I can’t stop looking at the belt. Now I want a belt that looks like an exposed zipper, how handy would that be?

Forget about the side pleats and look at the hardware of the skirt, I always see these hooks and it never occurs to me that I can add it to a skirt to give it a designer look. I can see it on a simple pencil skirt with a small mid-thigh vent.

I like the color and fabric that was used for this anorak jacket.

I like the use of the fur to make the diagonal stripe design on this coat.

I know I’m going to see a lot of celebrities in this dress, I like it has the sheer halter and the sweetheart bodice also.

All the components of this dress plays very well together, I love the metallic fabric, it’s a great color for the holidays alongside the leather blocking and of course that fabulous zipper belt.

This sweater knit dress is gorgeous, you know, when I see fabric like this I wonder how much does a yard of that cost. It just looks like a million bucks and another way to get the wavy stripes in.

I like the design of the sequins on the top and the necklace.

Here we are seeing the necklace as a belt and the back is cut out. This is definitely red carpet ready.

Just like DKNY, I like how their really stretched the possibilities of what you can do with stripes, from fur to sequins to metallic threads, very well done.

Ideas from Chicos

Striped Brook Dress

What I like about this maxi is the print.

The diagonal stripe print is very popular this year.

If you are wearing horizontal stripes but you want to get in on the stripe trend this year, I say, this is a great option.

A few stores are carrying a version of this print in dresses or tops and if you are lucky you may find the fabric soon.

Ellie Maxi Dress

I like the bodice of this maxi, the neckline and the pleats, what I don't like is the pleats on the skirt.

Maybe it’s because it’s made out of a solid but I find the look to be on the maternal side.

In a print it probably would be much better, it’s a classic look for a maxi dress, I would like it in a short version.

Travelers Classic Geo Collage Emma Maxi Dress

Another play on stripes. I guess it’s safe to say if you find a fun stripe jersey, grab it up.

I like the contrast black neckline, gives it a sporty look, as if you had layered a tank under it.

That's cute.

Travelers Classic Tegan Dress

I would absolutely recommend this silhouette for an LBD.

I love the extended shoulder (very flattering), it makes the arms look leaner.

I like how this poly/lycra blend skims over the torso and hip area and finishes into an A line effect.

Now, to find the perfect pattern.

Riley Dress

You know I love a surplice neckline, I talk about it all the time, so apart from the obvious, I like the cut of the hemline.

It comes up at the left leg as if the wind was blowing it as you walk but in a tasteful way.

Just another take on the traditional hi-lo hemline which is great because its been overdone at this point.

We need some new ideas to keep it fresh.

Chocolate & Blah, blah, blah

Yesterday I was sitting down looking through the pattern websites trying to convince myself that I needed to add another pattern to my list.

Simplicity is going on sale for Memorial Day weekend at Joann’s and I have nothing on my wish list.

McCall and Vogue, the following week and I also have nothing on my wish list for their pattern either.

You would think that I would be rejoicing. Instead I'm looking for something, anything; I must have missed to add to my collection.

Is it boredom or addiction?

Have you seen M6700?

Or maybe a better question is have you NOT seen it?

It’s funny, I have no desire to make another maxi dress this summer but I've been seeing so many reviews of this pattern that I want to know what is so good about it. But I don't want another maxi dress.

Is it weird to buy a pattern just to know you have it, to give you the feeling of being able to say to yourself, I can make that dress anytime I want even though you know you will not or never use it?

Social Influence is having the best of me.

What about shopping online for fabric to make pattern you don't have?

Is that weird?

I was looking at a butterick pattern on Saturday online and then I proceeded to buy not one, but two pieces of fabric for this dress and the best part is; I don't even have the pattern.

I spent two hours surfing online for fabric for a pattern I don't have and I bought it. Clearly I am a rational minded person. I make good judgment calls all the time!

Yesterday I was in the restroom washing my hands when this lady walked in, she said hello and she complimented me on my outfit.

I reciprocated with saying I liked her cobalt blue pants.

Her face lit and she started to go on about how bright pants are on trend and she was on the fence about the mix print trend but she was easing into it.

I listened and smiled.

She wore a grey, white and neon yellow top with the cobalt blue pants on a Monday, at work, at a corporate office, not for the company I worked for but in the same building.

I was sizing up this whole situation in my mind as I stood there in all black.

I was having a moment that I've often thought that people probably think about me when I'm wearing my “adventurous” pieces.

"This is not appropriate"

You look like you are going to a picnic, not to work.

But does she?

I can't tell anymore, people wear anything they want to anywhere they want too so there is no more dress code rules, if you like it you are trendy, if you hate it you are old fashion.

I'm old fashion? My goodness, now there is a thought.

Ideas from Ashley Stewart

I don't know who is responsible for styling the mannequins at my local Ashley Stewart store but they do a phenomenal job. I don't fit into their clothes but I admire how put together those mannequins are, I make mental notes because I am a curvy girl and the one thing they know at Ashley Stewart is how to dress women with curves.

Yes, that is very true.

So during my last visit I noticed the new arrivals and of course, more great ideas for our sewing endeavor.

The Colorblock Abstract Maxi, you must be tired of reading these words but yes, black side panels on a dress and if you are scared of stripes, look how it makes the model look more leaner dressed in the striped cutaway dress.

I also liked the Tropical print knot front Maxi, the colors were so vibrant in person and I like the twist effect at the bodice.

I also liked this denim dress reminded me of Mccall 6742 just sleeveless with pockets.


This color block Maxi reminded me of Mccalls 6697.

I love the one shoulder detail on the Asymmetrical Techno striped Sheath Dress and all the colors it comes in.

I didn't see this one at the store but I love the sunburst colorblock sections, very cute.

I like that they have the black section at the top of the shoulders, the print is beautiful on this dress in person, stunning.

This Floral Pique Sheath is simple and sexy, luv that.

Pre-Fall 2013: Gucci

There were a lot of mixed reviews for Gucci this year; some said it looked "maternal" some said it looked to commercial, some to retro, mad man era-ish.

I guess I can see a little of all of the above but what I liked most was the clean design lines, not too much draping and great color palette. 

View Collection Here. 

The first dress is super simple; it has a sweetheart neckline with a high waistline. The shoulders are very structured but are tapered at the elbow.

I also this deep V neck blouse, I guess, I can't see any closures so it doesn't look like a jacket.

Halter neckline plaid printed chiffon Midi dress, very apropos to fall.

This coat just looks expensive and warm.

Halter neckline cheetah maxi dress, I really love how that fabric is draped at the neckline.

Cocoon sleeve jacket, I like that its very simple, it’s all about the styling with this one.

Dior vs Gucci evening trousers

 

I like the sheer bodice and the gathered skirt on this maxi, I think the colors really give this a sophisticated grown up look. Sheer bodices kind remains me of little girls’ dresses and this one absolutely does not.

I love the ruffles on this skirt; I think the belt is what really makes it look balanced though.

 

I like the button details on the sleeves but I think it would look more modern without the pocket flap.

Another pretty ruffle skirt.

 

Of the shoulder dress with a slight sweetheart cut bodice, this is certainly very sexy.

 

Love this color coat, a teal coat for fall, I would love it.

Wow, this coat fits the model like a dress, I love the shaping at the waistline and the large lapels.

I like that it looks like a simple fold over strapless bodice but then there are the bra cups under the fold, peeking out.

 

I like the diagonal folds of this peplum top.

I like this gown, without the ruffles at the neckline I think it would be better without it. I like the deep V coming down the center, the dress can be lined with a "skin tone' color fabric for modesty but I think is very sexy and chic.

 

Yes, lots of eye candy here.

Ideas from Ann Taylor

I was checking out the new arrivals from Ann Taylor last night and there was some cute dresses.

Great Ideas.

I was looking at the Cascade Hem Dress and I instantly thought about Simplicity 2580.

You know, you never really think about what you can do with a pattern until you see something close to it in ready to wear and you are like, OMGosh! I need to pull that baby out for another go.

Yes, this was "pinned" immediately and the little black dress version, yes, luv that!

I thought about Carolyn when I saw the cotton stretch colorblock sheath because you know she takes her TNT sheath and comes up with a trillon ways to make new designer inspired dresses from it.

That strip of black on the side is so "curvy figure friendly"; chops off at least 10 lbs, lol.

Another "pinned" dress because its a classic.

I nominate the "flounce hem" fit and flare dress for the next pattern release. Is it just me or isn't it showing up everywhere lately. All I have to say is Yes to that dress, very semi fitted throughout the bust and waist area and the flounce hitting right at the knee or slightly above.

The Miracle Wrap dress, cute but I'm really over the robe style wrap dresses. I like the wider shoulder, it makes arms look smaller so that is always a plus and I like the A line skirt, not to much excess volume.

And last but not least and I know everyone hates chiffon but its not even the fabric choice its the waist detail.

How cute is that!

I like that the twist gives it a wrap dress look but of course everything is concealed, no room for error and its at the side seam which draws the eye in making the waistline look slimmer.

Oh, if I still bought RTW dresses, I would get this for sure.

Luckily I sew, so hopefully I see a pattern to make this dress sometime soon.

Pre-Fall 2013: Erdem

The first thing that caught my eye about the Erdem pre-fall collection was the spring palette.

View Full Collection Here.

The use of floral and emerald green to open the collection was refreshing but unexpected for an early fall collection.

I like the silhouette of this emerald green dress. The most flattering place for a flounce to end on a dress is at the knee. I had to learn this the hard way a few years ago. Always base stitch a flounce onto the skirt before you permanently attach it to check for proper placement of the hem.

I love how the lace was added as an overlay on this coat, we are seeing a lot of this look from cardigans to dresses and the lining is pink, how cute is that?

The floral long blazer/coat and evening trouser.

Beautiful Coat, I love the exposed full length zipper, the huge pockets and the collar.

The twin sweetheart cut dresses are equally cute; I like the use of the mesh on the left and the lace on the right. They both have godet skirts.

I like the print blocking of this jacket a nice take on the floral jacket trend by using the leather instead of a cotton or linen. This will take the look of floral into the colder months.

I really wish there were a better view of this dress because I like how it looks from the side. I will have to look out for some starlet wearing the look and post it later. I like the leather waistband, the raised neckline and the solid back.

Is this trench made out of chiffon, very interesting.

This collection is "pretty" for lack of a better word, the florals are eye-catching and beautiful, I can only imagine how the fabrics actually look up close. I think it’s safe to say that the floral jacket, dress and trouser are going to be a yearlong trend this year.

Pre-Fall 2013: Donna Karan

Click here to see the gallery display of the collection.

DKNY is simple, easy to replicate with wardrobe basics that can work for any woman's closet.

Donna Karan, New York, not as "sewer friendly".

Let's face it, not everyone like the fussiness of draping. It looks beautiful on models but it’s a pain to construct and good luck if you have fitting problems.

I have control issues when it comes to volume and seams that are not positioned in flattering places so I get it, it’s not for everyone.

I note all of the above to drive home the point that, sometimes you just have to admire good design for what it is.

So we will.

This collection has a couple suits I would love to add to my own sewing pattern collection.

View Full Collection Here

I like the collar of this blouse and the silhouette of the skirt. It would make a great sewing pattern.

I also like the use of the broad plain belt, looks like they are making a comeback and I also this suit as well.

This dress is gorgeous, just the draping alone. This will not flatter most but it’s a beautiful midi dress.

This asymmetric jacket with the shoulder pads; even the welt pockets are placed on the bias to compliment the shape of the jacket.

I love the sleeves on this top and the neckline. The sleeves are hi lo, probably would go un-noticed but it’s nice to see a different area apart from a hem with this detail.

I love the drama of this sheer panel circle skirt. I'm perplexed when people say they have no idea on what's trending for outfits to go to summer formal events. These full midi and maxi skirts are everything right now.

Look at how these darts are positioned on the bodice, on the diagonal. I love how they used the darts to construct a fit and flare dress. Clearly the overall look could be achieved in a simpler method but you know Donna Karan is known for draping if nothing else.

Draped one shoulder dress.

What I like about this suit is how the sleeves have an almost cocoon shaped but it still has the shaping at the waist so it does appear to be boxy.

I wonder what fabric was used to make this dress it looks like suiting but then it looks like a silk blend.

I like this dress would look better sleeveless.

Wow, love this fabric and I like how the bodice has and uneven, architectural shape to it.

This is a gorgeous Cocoon Coat. Is it velvet?

 

 

Pre Fall 2013: DKNY

View Full Collection here

View Different Views here

This is the post that got erased.

So, one more time because I think it’s worth it.

First of all, DKNY always have wearable garments in their collections, that can be easily made with sewing patterns so it’s always a good one to watch.

Effortlessly chic equals this sleeveless color block sheath dress, I like that both winter white and optic white was used, I haven't seen that before and I like that the black portion is positioned on the outer hip area.

An easy color block dress to replicate here.

I recently made my own version of this black and cream stripe skirt and I'm very happy I did.

I wondered if the back of this dress is a solid, I thought that it would be an interesting twist and then I checked the their website and saw that it was, fabulous! 

I don't care for these both pieces together but I think the skirt would be a great wardrobe builder.

I wonder if it’s the print that is giving it this effect or if there are folds or seams cut on the bias, very intriguing!

I like the use of the mirror image stripe fabrics to make a layer effect, I feel like the Donna Karan team really had fun with their use of stripes so far.

I like the idea of having these two basic knit dresses in the closet, because I know how great it is to have a couple of pullovers that you can dress up and down. They look like boring sewing but I bet they would be the most worn pieces during the summer.

Another cute stripe gathered tee shirt dress.

I thought it there was a zipper on this dress but looking at a close up, it doesn't look like it. It looks like a wrap dress with an asymmetric cut at the side seams.

And lastly, I like the sheer neckline. I need to put this treatment on something it’s subtle but chic, don't you think?

and of course I must point out the boots, I would love a short version of these.