Simple and Sexy: McCalls 8383
McCalls 8383
Brandi Joan is dropping some bangers! Love this dress!
McCalls 8383 is one of Brandi Joan’s new pattern for the summer. This bodycon knit dress features a back cut-out detail as well as two length and neckline options. It is easy sew and a stylish dress which is a winner in my book.
My first thought was to sew the knee length, view a, but with the scoop neck of view B. It turned out that I had just enough fabric to sew the midi length so I went ahead and sewed the longer length and I’m happy I did.
The pattern has six pieces with three of those being bands (neck, arm and back) so the dress came together quickly. The center back seams allows for a better fit and the front slit adds some interest. The banded openings also allows for a cleaner finish in my opinion than say a fold over hem.
Like most, my concern with cutout dresses is what type of support to wear under it. I’d been eyeing The Bra Lab on social media for a while so when their wireless bra went on sale for 70% off I grabbed the wireless bra in amber, the amber wide straps and the amber strap and criss-cross back bands. What makes this system unique is that the band attaches to the bra at the sides instead of the center back which allows for a cleaner look. I’ll do a full review on the bra itself if you want, let me know in the comments. I’ll just say I like it, it’s comfortable and supportive and the amber color is close to my skin tone.
Fabric:
This crimson knit is a jersey knit in my stash. I belive it’s from Fine Fabrics in Norcorss, Ga but I’m sure I’ve had it for years so I can’t swear to that. I believe it’s a rayon or some type of modal as it has a slippery hand, medium weight, great recovery and a good amount of stretch. It was really great for this project.
Modifications:
None. I am considering making another and altering the the back cut out to make it bra friendly and/or to hide some of my back fat. Seriously though I’m not pressed to “unbig my back” this summer and I think I solved the bra issue so I may not.
Lessons Learned:
Cut one size down. I’m a 44 bust and 38 waist and I cut a size 20.
Summary:
Pattern: McCalls 8383 by Brandi Joan
Pattern Description: Sleeveless knit dresses have a scoop or crew neckline with open back and band details. Dresses comes in two lengths and has front seam that starts from the waist then opens up into a slit.
Sizing: 8-16,18-26
Does it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope? Yes
Were the instructions easy to follow: Very
Would I recommend it to others? Yes, make it!
