Hey, Fam! I’ve been buried in fabric, sewing my little heart out, but I was determined to share my latest creation with you. So spotlighting my newest summer dress project!
Introducing McCalls M8403, a low-key sizzler perfect for the hot summer days which we have plenty of here in Maryland! This pattern features a cropped top with a plunging neckline and an inverted invisible zipper at the back. The skirt dips elegantly at the sides, revealing just the right amount of skin, and includes another invisible zipper.
Of course, in true SewHotMommi fashion, I put my own spin on it. Although the pattern is designed for woven fabric, I opted for a stable knit from my stash—this rich black knit that I couldn’t resist. Sewing with this knit added a bit of twist though. The fabric is drapey yet has an incredibly tight weave, making pinning challenging, ok. brutal. But, as always, I hung in there and voila!
Construction/Alterations
- To use the knit, I had to adjust the fit to accommodate the stretch. I took in at least 2″ on each skirt side seam and could have taken in more.
- 1″ was removed from the top side seams as well.
- The opening at the neckline is not conducive for a bra so I stitched is closed just above the connecting band. You can see it here.
- Both the collar and collar facing where interfaced to add more structure.
- A 4″ band was added at the skirt hem to add length. You can see it better here.
TIP: I added a fusible interfacing to all seam allowances for the zipper openings to stabilize and ward off any potential distortion.
I cut a size 10 and should have cut an 8 due to the knit. The top is the short-sleeved version from View C and the longest skirt length, plus for 4″ addition, of View B.
Styling
This dress totally gives the soft life/rich auntie vibe because of the black knit. This can easily be worn with flats or heels. It’s the quiet, casual elegance that makes it so versatile.
Heels: Nordstrom “Rachel” sandal by Open Edit
Flats: Stuart Weitzman
This dress is an intermediate-level project, mostly because of those invisible zippers. It took me a few days to complete, due to the fit adjustments and my crazy schedule. But let me tell you, the end result was totally worth it!
Thanks for hanging out with me. As always, I got you covered, because I’ll be back sewing updates, tips, and tutorials. Happy sewing, and until next time!
Dei – it’s stunning!
Thank you so much Carolyn!