I honestly think this pattern was the start of my fascination with vintage sewing patterns. I managed to snag it at an op-shop near where I work, for $2 – an absolute steal, and the fabric was a lovely thick fabric I found at a different op-shop again. The buttons were also a set I had picked up for 20c at the same op-shop where I found the fabric. So it seemed to me that the stars had simply aligned, determined to make this pattern a success.
In the past I had hesitated about buying vintage patterns, despite my love of vintage clothing and fashion – particularly from the 40’s through to the 60’s becoming a permaneant aspect of my life. This is because vintage patterns were all largely one-size, with the invention of multiple sizes of pattern in the one packet not becoming a common feature until later decades. I wasn’t confident I had the skills to fit patterns that didn’t have lines I could grade to. I was nervous vintage patterns would be too small for me. So I was shocked to find one for a 38” bust, with all pieces included and instructions intact! Little did I know that this would actually be a little too big in the bust for me, however, this would prove to be no obstacle.
Having tested the fit using an old sheet a friend had given me, I was confident it would work. I cut into this lovely fabric, and I got to work making View C. I was also certain I wanted this blouse to stand up to constant wash and wear, as I would be adding it to my work wardrobe. So I used french seams on both sides, and took extra care when attaching the yoke portion that all raw edges were carefully contained. I would have to say that the yoke and collar assembly would have to be the most difficult part of this pattern. Not because the instructions were lacking, but because I’d never sewn a yoke prior to this and found it hard to visualise how various bits and pieces were meant to go together. However, I somehow muddled through and the results were fantastic. The blouse, although a little big in the bodice, was otherwise absolutely wonderful.
The sleeves were the perfect length, the collar was adorable, and the bodice was actually a great length so I could either wear it out or tuck it in! I think even if I had sized down it probably still wouldn’t have been too difficult to fit, as there was plenty of room in the upper portion of the sleeve for my biceps and from the drape I think it would still fit over my hips – even if I were to go to Bust Size 36”. I’ve gotten so much wear out of this blouse, and have received numerous compliments on the fabric. It continues to wash and wear extremely well. The fabric hasn’t thinned out at all, there’s no issues with fraying or seams weakening. So I am looking forward to continuing to wear it for some time!
Pattern: McCall’s 7233
Views Made: View C, Bust Size 38″
Pros: Has quite a few lovely collar options, fit is very friendly to a curvier figure, instructions are very clear and detailed.
Cons: None that I can think of.
Would I recommend it to Beginners: I probably wouldn’t recommend this to beginners, especially if – like me, you had never even tried to assemble a yoke before as that’s a bit tricky.
Would I sew it again: I’m now more interested in fitted blouses, but I may sew it again in the future if I were to find a Bust Size 36” version.
Stitch Sessions 