The Wrap Dress – McCalls 7745

This wrap dress from McCall’s M7745, has been on my sewing radar since the pattern appeared. It speaks to my style: feminine, classic, and a bit flirty. There were so many great summer strappy versions of this dress that I’ve seen, but I wanted something more for my everyday workwear therefore I chose View C.

I made this in is a deep navy twill that’s a blend which gives it both drape and weight. The lining is a generic polyester from JoAnn Fabrics. Only the bodice is lined, so not much was needed.

The fabric is from one of my favorite sources…the clearance table at G Streets Fabrics in Maryland. I have gushed about them before but you can really find some great jewels if you’re willing to dig. All clearance is $2.97 a yard. Sweet Jesus!

As for construction, nothing too difficult. I did have to read the bodice-sleeve finish a few times, but all else is straight forward. But rumors swirled about the bodice fit and unfortunately they were true. I cut a size 8 because of the generous Big 4 sizing, but that was a judgement error. The surplice wrap was too wide open on first construction giving validity to the bad reviews over the bodice fit. It was not for public viewing…at all! So I gave myself more ease at the side seams, about 1 1/2″ which allowed the bodice to wrap a bit better. Then I sewed a hook and eye at the cross over point and that solved my problem.

As for ruffles, I only use the basting stitch method when it’s over short lengths. I triple baste the ruffle to better control the gathering. For longer lengths, I use my gathering foot and adjust the stitch length to either increase or decrease the density of the gather. After that, I attach it to the garment and whatever length that is left over is cut away. Makes for a more pleasant experience.

I see more of these in my future, but it’s on to the next project.