African Print Knee Length CaftanThis is McCall’s M7742. Here is the pattern McCalls M7742 . Okay, so even though this is clearly a dress, it did not turn out to be a dress for me. To me, it was too short for a dress. But, if I were younger, it probably would be a dress. For me, this is more of a tunic.
THE PATTERN. This pattern has 4 options. Mostly the body of the dress is the same but there are 5 sleeve variations. So, with this pattern, it’s clearly all about the sleeves. I cut a size large and made View E. And although it appears the on the front of the pattern that View E is longer than the other views, it is not. If I had known this, I would have made it longer. But even with that hiccup, I am very happy with the outcome.
THE FABRIC. This is an African print fabric I purchased online from an Etsy shop. I like this fabric because it is not too thick or too thin. I have purchased some African print fabrics that were not good for clothing at all, or much else because they were so very thin. Luckily that was not the case with this one. I have had this fabric for a minute, and was concerned about what I could make with it because of the large print and trying to carefully cut the pieces so they would not come out too weird in the finished product. It took some thought and maneuvering, but I think I did an okay job on pattern placement.
POSSIBLE MODIFICATIONS. The length can be modified on this pattern to make a short top, a tunic [my favorite] or even a tea length or maxi dress. All of these options would be great, and with the sleeve variations, that makes it even more versatile. I will probably create a short top modification which would look good with pants, jeans, or a pencil skirt. You also have a wide range when it comes to fabrics. The back of the pattern recommends crepe, rayon or chino. Even denim would work for this tunic/dress.
STYLING. I wore this with a pair of jeggings, but the styling options are too many, depending on whether you wear it as a dress or a tunic, like me. I kinda went casual with it, especially with the shoes. It can truly be dressed up or down. I think I will go back and make a belt for it so that I can cinch the waist. Just another option.
That’s a wrap for now, but I can’t wait to show you a new project, pattern, or DIY something. Thank you for allowing me to share this tunic/dress with you. Leave a comment and please “Like” if you like. Also, if you have not subscribed yet, please consider doing so. You can subscribe below. Make it a great day, and Make life better, one project at a time.
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