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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.

Twiluv 43: Butterick Summer/Fall 2013 Collection

Secret life of a sewer: Luck, Bling & Muslins

So what's been going on? 

Well, it’s been a great month.

It pays to go snoop shopping!

Well that is a half truth, I actually went to NY&Company a couple weeks ago to see if they had a pair of jeans I wanted at the store in my size and while I was there, of course I was planning to check out the new arrivals and the sales rack.

Upon my arrival, a store clerk handed me a card when I walked through the door.

I said thanks and walked straight to the jeans rack.

To make a long story short, they didn't have the jeans I wanted; they didn't have any long jeans except for what was on the sale rack, size 0-4.

Unbelievable!

And I was just about to walk out due to being disappointed when I realized I still had the card in my hand.

So I peeled it open and Walla!

 

Let’s just say, I had a more pleasant store experience after that!

This week, I was feeling really lazy but I did get my weekend project together. 

I'm going to make another Mccalls 6752.

 

I want to de-stash this piece of fabric I got last summer and it’s just enough to make another version of this dress, just longer to wear to work because I really do love the other one, it’s just too short for work.

Should I post finished photos, it’s the same thing?

I started my June Prep.

I got all my May projects done, I will post another review next week for the last garment.

If I spent 4 hours on the sewing machine each weekend, that's plenty, so I'm going to keep going with my current regime, easy projects with lots of instant gratification.

I want to make two skirts from Simplicity 1697.

As you can see here I cut out a muslin, this one has panels so it’s easy to adjust for fit. I have been saving my suiting fabric for a great simple skirt pattern so I don't want to mess it up. So it’s a muslin life for me!

 

I'm going to use this long weekend to do something I don't absolutely love doing but I don't hate either, making muslins are time consuming but critical when you don't want to mess up good fabric by having fitting issues that can't be fixed once the garment is made.

So that's really it for the sewing side of life.

And a total tangent, what is going on with some of these fashion magazines?

I was so happy to see my favorite Mad Man character "Joan" on the cover of Lucky, her interview was short and sweet but the rest of the magazine, my goodness, is it just me?

 

I looked through it once and put it in the shredding bin at work.

The only thing that really caught my attention was this photo of this model wearing a nautical stripe tee with these over the top sparkly earrings.

 

I love juxtaposition, especially with accessories, no longer do you have to keep the family jewels locked up in a box somewhere or at least the really good fake stuff either.

And seeing that I was in “earring admiring mode”, I noticed these stunning chandelier pearl earrings on Dita Von Teese.

Wow, I would love a pair of those to wear with my denim shirt, lol.

Alright, enough jibber jabber, I will post the Butterick my picks video tomorrow.

So much to luv.

Ideas from Ann Taylor

More new arrivals!

I wonder what it would be like if new patterns were released every week, hmm, lol

Kaliedoscope Maxi Dress

First of all, I love the print, when I saw this dress, I immediately thought of M6760. I love that they chose to emphasize the waistline by using a black waistband.

Floral Print Asymmetric Neck Dress

An asymmetric neckline is always flattering when it’s designed like this. I’ve been seeing a lot of gathered shoulder details lately even it comes to patterns such as M6752 and B5915. I like the use of the grosgrain as a waistband.

Side Tuck Jersey Dress

Emerald green looks superb in this dress. I am a fan of side tucks as you know and I like the cap sleeves, this would make a great sewing pattern.

Twist Shoulder Jersey Shift Dress

This is another design feature that has been popping up lately, the pleated shoulder knot. It’s a different way to make the look of the asymmetric neckline. This dress may need some help in the shaping department, the neckline is cute but the waist shaping is nonexistent.

Crossroads Stripe Dress

I like how they designed the stripes so that it looks like arrows directing your eyes into the center of the body. Great optical illusion technique, I probably would have thought to do this to a simple sheath dress to give it some pizazz. The square neckline frames the model’s face very nicely. The whole look is very visually appealing.

Crepe Shirred Waist Cap Sleeve Dress

Now, this I wish I can get a pattern for, just so I can see how they would draft the shirring detail at the waistline. I understand why they would capture the model in a semi frontal pose; I can’t see the other side to see if the detail is symmetric. What’s up with that? Nevertheless, if it is the same on both sides it would be very cute.

Lattice Print Split Neck Bubble Hem

Next to dresses, tops are the most popular sewing garment throughout the blogosphere so here is a cute option for you. I love the loose fit, the cap sleeves and the V neckline.

Striped Elastic Waist Pencil Skirts

Of course, the strip double knit skirt.

Wow 78 bucks!

Unbelievable, well at a good 40% sale it would still be worth it, these are truly awesome to have in your closet.

Pre-Fall 2013: Roland Mouret

I may not like everything that comes down the runway but as for great design lines, Roland Mouret always deliver.

View Collection Here

In the first look, I like how the sleeve cap is folded over. It appears to have some structure built in, perhaps with shoulder pads.

I like that they used a raglan style sleeve and bust darts, it gives the illusion of shaping, to add otherwise boxy blazer.

Such a great look for the office. After looking longingly at Elie Saab's Red dress, I added the note to my fall shopping list, "I need red fabric" but I'm still on the fence. Red fabric for the office would have to be the right shade, because it's such a "sexy color". I like this shade of red that was used for this dress and I even love the combination of the navy and the dash of winter white to brighten it up a bit. I love the bust darts radiating up to the neckline and the fold over waistline design.

So controlled. I keep staring at the folds at the neckline, I like how it fits the model at the waistline and flares out just a bit. It looks so well-tailored as it were pressed on her.

I wish I could see the dress under the jacket, you know I like using bias binding as a way to print block at the hem already.

Another floral evening blazer and trouser, we will just add it to the list.

I like this because it looks like a jumpsuit but not really. Both pieces would work with a lot of other things in the closet and black on the side seams of a color-blocked garment always make you look slimmer.

Another long blazer/coat, I like the black on the sides and yoke.

I don't like the idea of the fur on this skirt but the idea of a textured printed fabric is a great idea to achieve this look.

I love the cut of the blouse.

I like this look, which can easily be recreated with a lace long sleeve top, a wrap or flounce skirt and a bow belt which you can find anywhere. Cute outfit for a summer wedding.

To sum things up, there are some ideas  here as well.

This fall, it’s all about tailored pieces, and almost every collection I’ve posted so far is using suiting fabric to make some structured pieces.  A lot of it is truly cut to fit.

Interesting, makes me wonder what the pattern companies is going to release for fall even more.

 

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.