Maxi Season: McCall's 8035
Overview:
Who doesn't love a maxi dress? They can go from casual to chic easily by changing accessories and shoes.
Skill Level*: 2/beginner
Sewing Time: half a day
Pattern:
This pattern was quite popular when it came out and why wouldn't it be? It offers a wrap bodice, a choice of a petal or gathered sleeves, and a knee or ankle length skirt. I personally, love a wrap bodice, even a faux one. Add a side slit and the dramatic sleeves and what's not to like? Now view A with the mini peplum looks a bit frumpy to me, but view B is also cute.
While I love a good maxi I am hot natured and sleeves can feel stifling in warm weather. So I had to hurry up a sew this dresses before the temps here in the south get too hot and I'm glad I did because I love the sleeves.
Some reviews I read complained that the skirt was actually straight and I do agree that the illustrations for views A&B are misleading as the skirt appears fuller or more a-line, though the maxi looks straight on the model.
Fabric:
This grenadine gauze cotton fabric from Joann, they sell it but not this color any more, though there is a nice coral. It's nice and floaty perfect for a maxi dress. I purchased it around the same time as the pattern and both of them have been bagged up waiting to be sewn for probably two years.
Though I could say I wished I'd sewn it sooner I'm just happy I finally got around to it. I love the color and the fabric is perfect for this dress.
Modifications:
When cutting out the skirt pieces I snipped the notch for the slits on both sides of my dress so while I was sewing it up I decided to keep both slits!
Summary:
A cute maxi
Pattern: McCalls 8035
Pattern Description: Wrap front bodice, elastic raised waist, tulip and elastic hem puff sleeves. B: hemline ruffle. C: ankle length, side slit.
Sizing: XS-M, L-XL I cut an XL
Does it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope? Yes
Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes
Did I make in alterations? I had a split on both sides
Would I sew it again? Yes, I may make another of View C or View B, but with the view A sleeves
Would I recommend it to others? Yes