McCall’s M7969
Grannie-chic on the pattern cover, swoon-worthy on you.
Why have I purchased this pattern three times (and when will I learn to trace and not just cut)? It is universally flattering, endlessly versatile, and a really quick sew once you’ve done it a few times. Whether you’re looking for a (1) summer throw-on-and-go, (2) work to drinks, or (3) wedding guest, this dress really can do it all.
Fabric recommendations (per packaging): Lawn, Crepe De Chine, Challis, Georgette.
Fabric recommendations (per me): pretty much anything non-stretch would work, just keep in mind the drape of your fabric. For example, I recommend a brocade for the wedding guest version of this dress, which will sit more crisply and have less movement than a cotton lawn.
Summer throw-on-and-go
Gingham for summer? Groundbreaking. But it’s so playful and quintessentially summer! You really can’t go wrong with a cotton gingham, whether you do classic or funky.
I love the sleeve detailing on this dress, and it’s what really elevates this dress from a homemade project. You can find a cool tutorial on how to do sleeves like this here.
Work to drinks
My favorite way to work is to drink. I think the key here is to go with more muted colors, but you can keep a fun pattern. The neckline on this pattern is also very easily adjustable, so try before you baste to ensure it doesn’t dip too low.
I especially like some of the Liberty of London fabrics for work to drinks, because you’ll keep the drape and flow of the dress but the darker motif works well for a business environment and is still fun and unique enough to go out in afterwards.
Wedding Guest
Is it rude to be better dressed than the bride? Not if you made the dress! The fabric is really what elevates this dress from an everyday staple to something special. Silks will keep the drape and flow, while a brocade will provide more structure, and both will have everyone asking “Where did you get your dress?”.
While the tie waist is nice on this dress, I really don’t think it’s necessary to add too many flourishes. I would really let the fabric speak for this iteration of this pattern. Toile first!!!
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