2-PIECE CHAMBRAY SET | MCCALL'S 8328 & 8207
I recently attended an event in my town where the dress code was Western Attire. The only thing I had was jeans, but I wanted something special. This 2-Piece Chambray Set fit the theme and it gave me the elegant cowgirl vibe. Let’s get into the details.
Skirt Pattern Information
McCall’s 8389 is a misses high-waisted A-Line skirt in two lengths with a center front exposed/separating zipper, yoke, optional pockets, and seaming details. (UPDATE: This skirt comes in plus size. The pattern is MCCALL’S 8390)
The pattern is available in print option only with a size range of 4 – 20. The company rates the pattern as AVERAGE (Intermediate) and I agree. The instructions are fairly straight forward. I didn’t run into any issues.
Shirt Pattern Information
McCall’s 8027 is a close fitting shirt with princess seams in two lengths. The shirt has a collar and collar band, front yoke, two-piece pleated sleeve, front band, snap closures, and topstitching details. View A has contrast sections and grommets with drawstrings. View B has casings and drawstrings along the front and back princess seams.
The pattern is available in both PDF and Print options, ranging is size from 6 – 22. The company rates the pattern as AVERAGE (Intermediate) and I agree. The instructions were straight forward. However, I did run into a couple of issues that I’ll explain in the Alterations section of this blog post.
Fabric Information
McCall’s 8389 (skirt) calls for Cotton Blends, Denim, Linen, and Twill. I used a Chambray that I purchased from Michael Levine Fabrics in Downtown, Los Angeles Fashion District. McCall’s 8027 (shirt) calls for Cotton Blends, Chambray, Gingham, and Flannel. I used the same Chambray fabric for the shirt.
I learned something new with this project. All these years, I thought Chambray was a very lightweight Denim. After sharing about the fabric, someone in my Facebook community corrected me and said it’s actually Chambray. I thought to myself, “that’s lightweight denim.” I went to Google and found an article by LA Finch Fabrics that explains the difference between the two. I wanted to share this information here just in case there’s someone else who doesn’t know.
Inside the Garment
I used three of my Baby Lock Sewing Machines to sew both garments. I used the Chorus to sew all the main seams. The Vibrant is an entry-level serger and I used it to finish the seam allowances. One of my favorite sewing skills is topstitching. I find it to be very calming and relaxing, a time when I get to slow down to almost a snail’s pace to ensure precision. I did have some mishaps that I left as is, but nothing that I can’t live with. Because I didn’t want to switch threads back and forth on the Chorus, I threaded the Soprano with Topstitching Thread for the needle and an All Purpose Polyester Thread in the bobbin. Then, I set the stitch length to 3.0 mm and adjusted my needle position to sew 1/4″ from the seams for topstitching, and right along the edge for edge stitching. Next time I will plan to use a twin needle. I have no idea why I didn’t use one this time. Here are close up photos on the inside of both garments.
Notions Information
The skirt pattern calls for a 9″ exposed metal zipper for View A, and a 20″ separating zipper for Views B and C. I purchased a 27″ separating zipper from Downtown Los Angeles because they didn’t have a 20″ option. I’m very glad I used the longer zipper because I don’t like high slits in my skirts. The 27″ was just the right length for my comfort. The skirt does not call for buttons, but I used two 1/2″ metal buttons on the pocket flaps to elevate the look. I couldn’t imagine the pocket flaps just hanging there.
The shirt pattern calls for ten grommets and fifteen 4-Part Metal Snaps. Views B & C call for sixteen 4-Part Metal Snaps. I used 1/2″ metal buttons instead of snaps because I love the design on them and wanted to match them with the skirt buttons. They look really nice on both garments.
Alterations Information
I cut a size 12 at the waist, and 10 at the hip for the skirt. I sewed a muslin of the top of the skirt without the flounce to check fit (without the zipper) and I thought it was just right. However, after finishing the skirt with the Chambray, I realized it was just a tad bit loose at the waist. I could have sewn a deeper seam allowance on the sides to take it in a bit. I’ll remember that when I sew the skirt again. I like a very snug waistband fit on skirts and pants.
I cut a size 10 for the shirt and after sewing the muslin, I discovered it was a bit too small. Instead of going up to the next size, I decided to reduce all the vertical seam allowances to 1/2″ to give me just enough room for my desired fit. Before sewing the final stitches with my Chambray fabric, I based the fronts, backs, and shoulders to check for fit. Without attaching the front bands, I could already tell that it would fit just right.
I ran into an issue with the collar and collar band fitting. After sewing them together the first time, I realized that the bottom of the collar was the same length as the top of the band, which is incorrect. The collar should be a bit shorter to leave that extra space for the buttonhole and overlap on the band (without the collar ends overlapping). I thought maybe I had cut the pieces incorrectly, so I cut them again, being careful with my cuts. It wasn’t me. I believe there was a mistake in drafting. I could have easily re-sized the collar or cut that piece a size smaller. However, I was running out of time and needed to get the shirt finished. It looks fine and I don’t plan to button the collar band anyway. Also, my collar is a bit too stiff. I would use a lighter weight interfacing next time (depending on the fabric choice). I omitted the sleeve tab because I didn’t want it.
I read on Pattern Review that two other creators had issues with the front yoke piece not fitting properly because it’s not multi-sized. I didn’t have any issues with the yokes. They fit my shirt perfectly.
Styling Options
As I mentioned in the opening, this outfit was made for a special event in my town. It was the Annual Fall Banquet and Fundraiser for Care Net Women’s Resource Center. The theme was “Boots, Lace & A Whole Lotta Grace”. I’m not a western wear girl at all. But after making this outfit and styling it, I may be a little soft on western attire now. Just maybe. For the banquet, I styled it with my camel colored cowboy hat, concho leather belt, suede cowboy boots, and simple silver jewelry. I thought I was a real cowgirl by the end of the event. Hahahaaaa!
Since I plan to get lots of wear from the two pieces, I paired them with a couple of other garments in my wardrobe. Here, I paired the skirt with my black turtleneck sweater and black boots. This is great for winter with a pair of tights to keep my legs warm. I could even add a black blazer for an extra layer of warmth.
I was excited to pair the shirt with my skirt from McCall’s 8482. OMGosh! I love it. I styled it with my cowboy boots, concho belt, and brown cowboy hat. Yes, honey, I purchased two hats, because I wasn’t sure which one I liked most. I told you I might become a cowgirl. Hahaha!!!
I have several other pieces in my current wardrobe that I can wear with my new Chambray pieces. I’ll have fun finding new ways to wear them as I add more new garments to my wardrobe. Here are a few photos from the banquet.
What do you think?
I would love to hear your feedback. Scroll to the very bottom of this page to leave a comment.
Thank you for stopping by today! 💕
Other Related Links
- Sewing Project Checklist
- Learn to SEW Course
- Baby Lock Soprano
- Baby Lock Vibrant
- Baby Lock Euphoria
- Baby Lock Chorus
(DISCLAIMER: This blog post may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission on qualifying purchases. All opinions in this post are my own.).)
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This Post Has 35 Comments
You really did a fantastic job on the entire outfit! Great fit too!
Thank you for sharing!!! You look fabulous, Anita!😁⭐️
Thank you, Judy! 💙
You look awesome. All three different outfits are beautiful.
Thank you so much, Debra! 💙
Wow! What can I say? Absolutely stunning. Hat’s off for another great outfit. You did your thang. I am going to try to make the outfit. Waiting for the patterns to come in. Will be using a light blue chambray. Thanks so much for sharing.
Thank you, Lydia! Awesome! I hope you will enjoy making this outfit as much as I did. Have fun sewing!🤗
Another awe-inspiring Blog Post. You nailed the Western Look in your beautifully elegant way.
Thank you so much, Marcia! 💕
This is one of the cutest outfits! You did a great job, I am impressed with your topstitching! Great Job!
Thank you so much, Beth! The topstitching was a lot of fun. 🤗
I LOVE,LOVE,LOVE the all denim ensemble!!!! Everything is just gorgeous!
Thank you so much, Charisse! I love it too. 💙
OMG!! I LOVE it. What a great selection of fabric and styling.
Thank you, Cynthia! I’m so glad I found the exact fabric I was searching for to make the outfit. It worked out exactly as I had planned. 🤗
Fabulous as always, Ms. Anita. I love how you style all of your makes. May God continue to bless the work of your hands.
Thank you so much for the blessing, Florence. I appreciate you. 💙
Loved the total look
The styling was on point as always.
Thank you, Sandra! 💙
Sew Sister! Sew Sister!😁
Anita,
You are truly an amazing and creative Wonan of God. Your artistry through sewing is incredible. I love it!👍👍👍
My Classy Sew Sis, Keep teaching and inspiring. You are appreciated.😇
Thank you!🙏💞
You are stunning in this outfit! I enjoy watching your sewing tutorials on YouTube. I learned to sew in school in the 1970’s when Home Economics was still taught. After 40 years as a registered nurse I have retired to care for my grandchildren and sew again!
Congratulations on your retirement, Mary! I’m sure you’re loving all the time you get to have with your grandchildren. Happy Happy days to sewing again! WooHoo! 🤗
Extraordinary sewing skills, as usual, Anita! The hat and the boots MAKE your ensemble, and you look lovely in it.
Thank you, Susan! Yes, I agree with you about the hat and boots elevating the entire look. 🤗
Fabulous!
the detail on the chambray outfit is impeccable! these outfits look great on you! love all the different styling combinations; the styling is beautiful!
Thank you, Marilyn! I absolutely love all the details too. 🤗
Ms. Anita, this is absolutely stunning! Love it!
Thank you so much, Trish!💙
Love, love, love as always! The skirt is such a fancy look for that fun, stylin cowgirl! Great job, Anita! You make me want to head to my sewing room and make something cute.
Yeeesss! Head over to that sewing room, Lisa! 🤗
You look absolutely fabulous as always, both pieces fit beautifully and the finish on both is flawless. I have just finished a cowboy shirt in an African wax print, and am also enjoying wearing it. Always enjoy your blog posts! 👍😊
Oh wow! I’m sure your shirt looks fabulous. What a great idea to use an African wax print. I had so much fun making the shirt.🤗
Love the outfit and all of your options. You really look great! Your accessories are on point and the fit is fantastic! You have truly inspired me.
Thank you so much, Hettie! I’m so glad to hear that you’re inspired. 💕💕💕
Absolutely love the Cowgirl pieces! Then you styled them with some of the other pieces that you’ve made… can we all say VERSATILITY!
Yeeesss! Versatility is what I’m looking for as I rebuild my wardrobe. Give me all the wearable options! 🤗