July 24, 2019

Toulouse Sundress – McCall’s 6956 in Orange Cotton

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This sundress is McCall’s 6956, view A. The fabric was a lucky quilting cotton find on the clearance table at Joann’s. I originally got it with a Toulouse (Aristocats) outfit in mind – orange dress with blue bow. While the group outfit/outing never happened, I have worn it with a blue hair bow!

I did my usual grading between sizes, including lengthening the bodice. However, I don’t think it actually needs it, so next time I won’t add the extra length. It went together beautifully once I figured out how the pleats are supposed to go. It is worth going slowly to get them all lined up properly. I have found that I have to press the pleats again quite carefully every time I wash the dress. Next time I make this I will line the skirt so I can tack the pleats to it on the inside.

I have also pulled the boning out of the side seams and front side seams. It was poking me, and has made no difference to the fit or look! One other alteration for next time is to put the straps slightly closer together. They have a tendency to slip off my shoulders.

Despite the issues, I love this dress. It is comfy and flattering and I will certainly make it again.

The two back pleats show up better than the three front pleats.

The inner workings. You can see the white casings where the boning was before I took it out. You can also see the tops of the three front pleats. I tacked them together at the corners, but having a lining to tack them to would be much better.

McCall’s 6956, view A

Sundress with pleated skirt, fitted bodice and choice of straps, strapless or halter.

Difficulty

Intermediate – You are happy wearing the things you make. You can put in a zip and do buttonholes. You have used more fussy fabric such as satin, faux fur, or floppy/silky fabrics.

Fabric and Trim

Main: Quilting Cotton

Instructions

This was nice and easy once I understood the pleats.

Alterations

I added extra length in the bodice, but on this style it really isn’t necessary.

Next time I will line the skirt and tack the pleats to it on the inside. This will help keep everything straight and in place. I will also skip the bodice boning, and put the straps slightly closer together.

Conclusions

This is a good intermediate pattern which can be an everyday sundress in a cotton, or a glamorous evening dress in a silk or other fancy fabric. I will definitely make it again.

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