batwing sleeve dress: mccalls 7465

Hey everybody! Happy Wednesday! Today I am sharing a dress that I had ALL types of doubts about while sewing it! I had doubts about my fabric choice, the size to cut, and if I’m being honest, I had doubts about how it would fit! Within the last couple weeks, I’ve gained back some pounds that I’ve previously lost, so I wasn’t sold on this knit batwing sleeve dress, but man was I wrong! It turned out to be better than I expected!

When I finished the dress and put it on, all doubts immediately went away and I felt amazing! This McCalls 7465 dress will be made again…and again! Lol! Let’s get into the details about it!

Pattern Used: I used McCalls 7465 for this dress and I made View B on the pattern. This dress is Out Of Print so during the next pattern sale at your local craft store (Joann, Hobby Lobby etc) check the drawers to see if one or two is still in there. Also check on McCalls website. They often do an “Out Of Print” sale if you’re interested in this pattern.

Pattern Description: Pullover dress with close-fitting skirt has neckline, sleeve and skirt variations. A, B: Batwing sleeves and cowl neckline. C, D: Short dolman sleeves and scoop neckline. A, D: Ruching on one side of skirt. *description from McCalls website

Pattern Sewing Level: This pattern is rated Easy and I agree! It’s a great, easy pattern for any level of sewer.

What size did you cut?: I cut the 16 for the bust, grade to the 18 for the waist and I graded the pattern up to a 24 for the hips because like I mentioned, I wasn’t sure about the fit! My hips are currently 50-51” and the 22 is a 47.5”. I know its knit and stretchy and forgiving but I don’t like clingy clothes so I graded up just to be sure! I rather have extra fabric than not enough.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes they were! I really liked the way the neckline is sewn and finished on this dress! The instructions and illustrations are great and well written for this pattern.

What did you like or dislike about the pattern? I don’t have any dislikes about this pattern! I love the cowl neckline and the batwing sleeves. I’m looking forward to making more for date night with hubs!

Did you make any pattern alterations: None other than grading for my size.

Where did you purchase the fabric(s)? This fabric is from La Finch Fabrics. It is their Rayon Spandex Slub Zig Zag Black & Cream Knit. The fabric is lightweight, has drape and a nice soft hand!