Loose Fitting Dress

Pattern Review: McCall’s M7969

After reading numerous reviews praising how easy this dress is to make, I decided to track down the pattern. I opted to sew a wearable toile using an upcycled doona cover.

There’s a lot to like about this dress, though it does come with some caveats. First, I found the instructions lacking in clarity—definitely not ideal for beginners. The crossover front tends to gape, so I added a slip stitch to keep it closed. The bodice design seems better suited to a fuller bust, but I managed to make it work with a well-fitting, supportive bra. Gathering the skirt was a bit of a chore—one of those sewing steps that really requires the right mindset.

I made my own bias binding for the bodice, which involved quite a bit of work. It all needed to be hand slip-stitched on the inside, so patience was key.

Overall, I think I’m satisfied with the result. Although I haven’t worn the dress much since making it in 2021—largely due to a love-hate relationship with it—revisiting it for Me Made May has made me reconsider. It’s actually not too bad, and I’ll try to wear it more often.

This pattern is best suited for advanced beginners and beyond.