McCalls 7061 is actually a pajama pattern, but it can be used a loungewear or athleisure wear. I originally purchased this pattern for the pants, view F, to make joggers last year, here. (The pattern is perfect for joggers BTW). This winter I wanted to make some hoodies and sweatshirts so I pulled this pattern out for views A & C. I was sidetracked however when this heather gray knit fabric from my Black Friday Girl Charlee order arrived. I just felt the fabric was perfect for the collared sweater dress, View D.

The construction was easy, I only glanced at the instructions. I did not make any modifications, except to omit the collar pull tie. I would however make several mods if I were to make it again.
- For me it is a tad too long, in McCalls defense this isn’t the patterns fault as it is intended to be a sleep dress. After sewing it up I decided I would have rather had a tunic length to wear of jeggings/leggings. I’m debating whether I want to omit the hem band and finish with a narrow hem or remove and shorten the hem band.
- I would lengthen the collar so that I could pull it up all the way like a hood. It is fine as is, but just isn’t “practical”.
- I would add 1/2-3/4″ to the upper side seam of the front and back starting a few inches below the bust. This sounds weird but…I have a large rib cage, that’s the only way I can describe it (lol), so the dress is tight in the underarm and bust area. NOTE: Adding width here also requires widening the sleeve curve. I did this when I sewed up View A and though still a tad tight it was better. This possibly wouldn’t have been as big of an issue if I had used a “stretchier” knit, but you can see this area pulling in the photos.
All in all I like this pattern I just think the shape requires some modification for my body. Perhaps I’ll buy the larger size pattern to address the under arm/upper bust tightness but I believe the rest of the dress will be too baggy if I went with a large. Again, I oddly have this problem often of things fitting everywhere except the bust, even though I’m only a B cup so it might work just fine for you!
I plan to work with this dress by shortening it and hopefully after I lose a few pounds the fit will work.
Pattern: McCalls 7061
Pattern Description: Close-fitting tops and dresses have sleeve bands. A and B: stitched hem on hood, wrong side shows. B and C: shaped hemline. A and D: collar and hem band. D: purchased drawstring. B, C and D: pocket.
Sizing: XS-S-M, L-XL-XXL I sewed a Medium
Difficulty: 1/easy
Fabric Used: Stretch Denim Heather Gray Cotton Spandex Blend Knit from Girl Charlee (links in body)
Does it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope? Yes, minus the collar pull.
Were the instructions easy to follow? Very
Likes: The athleisure vibe
Dislikes: It’s a tad tight in the bust area.
Pattern alterations or any design changes made: none, but next time I will cut a half size larger (or lose 5 lbs)
Would I sew it again? Yes I want to make a striped one with the hood
Would I recommend it to others? Definitely
Conclusion: Great pattern for a cute lounge around or lazy Saturday running errands dress.
Total Cost: $6.25
Heather Gray Knit 2.5 yds @ $2.50/yd* = $6.25
*Black friday sales price
I love the casual vibe on this! It’s one of those things you don’t know you need but suddenly can’t live without.
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Exactly. I will be making another.
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Great post! I’ve never considered making athletic/lounge wear, but it’s one of my favorite things to wear. You did a great job!
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Thank you. I saw a similar dress/tunic in target and said oh no I can make that. Athletic/athleisure wear is expensive.
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So true!!
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Love it! I agree the tunic length would be cute as well! If I make this I would make it shorter with a hood as well 😉 great job!
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View B has a hood.
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Wow from the pattern envelope I never would have wanted this pattern but I want it now after seeing your version!
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Stayed tuned for views A and E!
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I like this!! It looks very comfortable. I understand the struggle with the tightness around the under arm and bust. I will definitely be picking this pattern up this weekend.
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Thank you. Definitely do! It is a great pattern. McCalls is on sale at Hancock if you’re near one!
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There’s 2 close by me and the people there know me by name. 😄
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Easier to buy the size bigger and take it in (if need be) below your rib cage. Personally, I’d consider leaving it, as the one you made looks a tad snug at the hip level.
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LOVE this!!! Getting the pattern right now. 🙂
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Awesome!
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