Wednesday, May 20, 2009

McCall's 5752 The Perfect Knit Dress




This very popular pattern deserves its reputation and title as "The Perfect Knit Dress", so dubbed by Pati Palmer. It lives up to the suggestion that it is flattering to everyone and easy to sew. I had hoped to finish this before attending the PR weekend so I could wear it on the Pati Palmer day. I didn't quite get it done in the hectic weeks before the event but here it is now.

My pattern was size BB which is 8 - 14. It is also available in size FF, 16- 22. I made 10 in the shoulders and neck, and 14 at the sides. This is my usual combo. I found this fit better than most without additional tweaking or FBA.
I lengthened the skirt 2 inches. In the photo I have knotted the front drape but it is constructed just as the pattern shows.

There are extensive instructions on how to alter. I did change the order of construction as suggested by Barbara V in her review on Pattern Review. I see that others have done this also.

I love the ruched waist that hides body issues, especially in the back. I love the cross over that doesn't gap or reveal. I love the soft drape in the front which also helps hide body issues. Maybe I'm dillusional but it does seem to flatter. I think this is a rayon knit, perhaps blended with cotton as it is very soft and cotton-ey feeling. I purchased this 6 years ago from Fabric.com for less than $10. From that I have made this dress plus a maternity top last year for my DIL. What a bargain! I would love to have more of this type fabric.

I really like this dress. It is so comfortable to wear and goes together easily. No wonder many have already made this dress and reviewed it favorably.

10 comments:

NancyDaQ said...

Very cute! I recently bought this pattern after seeing it on another blog. I'm really looking forward to making it.

Mary Beth said...

Love That Fabric! Perfect combo of pattern and fabric!

gwensews said...

That's a very flattering dress and a great print! I MUST have this pattern!

Christina said...

What a cool fabric, and the dress fits you perfectly. It was good to see you in Portland!

Pam Erny said...

Gorgeous !

Gail said...

You look fabulous. I have this pattern but have never used it.

Annika said...

Lovely pattern and lovely fit! I meant to email earlier to say thanks for putting up with me at the PR Weekend!

Pati Palmer said...

The dress looks FABULOUS on you. I love the print. I am looking for a knit print I like so I can make it in something other than black!! We in Portland loved having you all her. Pati Palmer

Nancy K said...

This is on my list for a summer dress. It looks great on you!

Leianna said...

Truly beautiful knit dress!! Fabric of this dress is absolutely fine!!