This review was originally featured in Threads #184 (April/May 2016). If this pattern is no longer readily available via the pattern company, try searching online for the pattern name and number, or try Etsy.com or eBay.com.

McCall’s 7196, tops and tunics

These loose-fitting pullover tops have scoop necklines finished with narrow bias binding, a left side bust dart, and focal pleats on the right front. There are four views, and the lengths reach lower hip or upper thigh. The hemlines are straight, or asymmetrical with a pointed front, and all feature a narrow, machine-sewn hem. There are three sleeve options: sleeveless and finished with a narrow bias facing, short sleeves, or below-elbow-length sleeves. Two views contain a horizontal tuck that falls 2-1⁄2 inches below the waist. Textiles suggested for this design are lightweight fabrics that drape, such as crepe de Chine, challis, silk jacquard, charmeuse, silk chiffon, and voile. Each front is pieced with a seam hidden within the pleat nearest center front. Our staff seamstress suggested sewing this hidden seam as a French seam on the views with a pointed hem, otherwise the seam allowance shows at the hem edge. View A is shown in a color-blocked option, with contrast yardage requirements included on the pattern envelope. Our tester thought this is a great look to wear with leggings, skinny jeans, or a slim skirt that keeps the outfit’s bottom volume to a minimum. If you will be sitting most of the time while wearing the top, our tester recommends sewing a view with a waistline tuck, or else the pleats spread open for a less attractive look.

(Sized Misses’ 6-22 for busts 30.5-44 in.)

Sewing Tip: Baste through the pleats before sewing the horizontal waist tuck, to keep the fabric layers from shifting.

-Tested by Rachel Kurland, South Strafford, Vermont

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