Summer McCalls picks 2012....and what I'm loving

 I dont think I've ever posted about my favorites before, so you know I'm loving 
McCall's latest release!! I'm really digging the whole collection, but here are my picks:

 M6600: This shirtdress is one of my favorites, it's such a classic. The fabric choices can make a real difference, and the fabric on the model is gorgeous too! I also like how they are showing different design options, sort of like designers view. (ex: simplicity/project runway)  I can definitely see myself making this with some type of funky fabric, I'm influenced.

Second time, just as charming...

You kno, it is not easy trying to be your own photographer. Me and this darn remote........
 I didn't get many shots of the full dress, like I wanted, but I guess these are okay..
I had to lay my son off,  from his photographer job, because he likes to play with the settings and then I have to re-figure them out, smh.

McCall's 6558
Soo,  I purchased a remote on Amazon, (what took me soo long!!!) best decision ever! I don't quite have the timer down like I want, but it's not that bad. Taking pics outside, uhm no it's too hot for that, even in the evenings!

Maxi Love

                     This summer I've developed a true love for Maxi's. It's already blazing hot here, so I've added quite a few to my collection.


 While digging thru my stash, I came across Simplicity 3503.  I originally purchased this one because 
It was the best of 2009 of course.

Leanne Marshall and the bombshell...S1876


 A couple of months ago, I got super addicted to the, Craftsy website and I really love their sewing classes!! I'm lovin how interactive they are, how clear the videos are shot, from supplies needed, preparing the pattern, alterations needed, really true step by step for visual learners like myself.  


 Now, I've taken other online classes before, but there's always some type of time factor involved, online chat sessions (which can get boring to read and scroll thru) with a picture here and there etc. and I just can't learn anything without seeing how you do it, seriously lol.

A Midi from a Maxi?!



 When I first saw this fabric, I knew right away it was going to be a maxi dress. I don't do very many striped fabrics because it seems like it could be a lot of work, depending on the design. Soo, I prefer to keep it simple.


  I actually purchased this gauze fabric along with many others last year @ Hancock's when they had a really good sale on it. So it's been in my closet folded away begging to be made this summer, and when I saw  M6558, I felt it could work!

From the WorkRoom ....6097

I'm  a big fan of wrap dresses, and the mock wrap bodice on this NewLook dress is
 no exception! I really love how they seem to have
 revamped their pattern look too.


Usually, I'm always put off by the cover models on the envelopes. I mean, sometimes the fabric selection or print take away from the design structure and I miss out on good patterns based on that! I guess that's why checking out the line drawings is so important. The, "WorkRoom from Project Runway", pattern covers definitely get my attention!


When I saw this one, especially with the pockets, I was hooked right away. It's
not a lot of variations in the design besides the sleeve length and
with or without a collar. I like simple.

Ever been to a Toga Party?

Me neither, lol  but I've been to a few cocktail parties ya kno!  When I first saw this Grecian inspired dress, by Cynthia Rowley I knew I had to make it. I loved the one shoulder idea, it's so Roman-like.


I always kept this photo I saved from asewnwardrobe blogpost for inspiration. 
I love the color combo, even the shoulder strap and that bag!

A Little Retro....v8723

I love the "Mad Men style" that's been all over the blogs as of late, and I've been itching to make something retro or vintage. Of course I do have a few vintage frocks that's been thrifted and gifted to me from my Mom (she's a true collector). The funny thing is,... I've had this pattern for a minute, but never realized until I was re-organizing my stash closet, that I had almost the exact same fabric that's on the envelope!! 



I think this style of dress lends a vintage, retro vibe to it. Ok, well yes it does have a lot of gathering to it, as mentioned in many reviews but I think it adds to the look. I mean wearing it, causes occasional involuntary twirl walking, skipping (followed by a little dizziness, lol) but I feel so darn dainty!!