BUTTON DOWN SHIRT | MCCALL'S 7472
I love a good button down shirt and I’ve been wanting one in a tunic length for a while. Do you know the history of the classic button down shirt? I was curious and decided to research the origins of the shirt and found a short article that satisfied my curiosity. In short, British Polo players in the nineteenth century asked their tailors to sew extra buttons on the collars of their polo shirts to prevent them from flapping while they rode. An American, named John Brooks, took this idea back to his grandfather’s business in America. Brooks Brothers manufactured the first button down shirt in 1896. Here’s the ARTICLE if you’d like to read more. Today’s post is sponsored by BABY LOCK. Now, let’s get into the details of this beautiful garment.
Pattern Information
MCCALL’S 7472 is a variation of the classic button down shirt. It is a loose-fitting shirt and tunic with raglan sleeves, hem and collar variations. Views A and F have sleeve tabs to fasten the sleeve in place when rolled up. Views A, C, D, and F have chest patch pockets (C, D, F have pocket flaps with buttons). Views C, D, E, and F have button cuffs at the end of the sleeves. Due to the length of the side slits, the wrong side of fabric will show on View D. There is a self fabric belt included for View E. View B has a stand-up collar, while the other views have pointed collars.
The company rates the pattern as EASY. However, I would rate it as AVERAGE due to some of the required sewing skills that a beginner may not have mastered yet. It requires sewing a continuous lap on sleeve; attaching front bands for buttonholes and buttons; collars and collar stands; and curved hems. The pattern is available in both Print and PDF options, with sizes ranging from 6 – 22.
The pattern instructions were pretty straightforward. However, there were a couple of notable mistakes.
- Instruction #26 says to leave the end with buttonhole marking free when sewing the TAB (15). This is incorrect. The end with the buttonhole marking must be closed for obvious reasons. Leave the opposite end open.
- Instruction #38 says to press under 5/8″ on long unnotched edge of CUFF (13). The notch is missing from the pattern piece. Press under on the long end opposite the buttonhole markings.
Fabric Information
The pattern envelope lists Lightweight Woven, Crepe de Chine, Challis, and Lawn for the shirts. I used a beautiful LIGHTWEIGHT SILKY COTTON POPLIN from Core Fabrics. I wanted a fabric with a crisp hand. That may seem like an unusual choice for a long shirt (tunic length), but I had a vision for the look I wanted to achieve.
This Eco Friendly Poplin is definitely a higher quality than most. It has a smooth, silky feel. And although it’s 100% cotton, it doesn’t wrinkle as much as you would expect. I love the way it feels against my body too.
I did not want my collar, front bands and sleeve cuffs to be too stiff, so I chose this RECYCLED LIGHTWEIGHT WOVEN FUSIBLE INTERFACING in the color black from Core Fabrics. It is the perfect fit for my shirt as it kept the interfaced areas soft but stable.
As part of my collaboration with Core Fabrics, you can receive 15% off your entire order at CORE FABRICS by using my code (ANITA15) at checkout. Discount does not apply to sale items.
Inside the Garment
I used only one machine to sew the entire garment, my BABY LOCK CHORUS. I am so pleased with all my Baby Lock sewing machines. Seriously, I’m still thrilled over the fact that I get to sew on such amazing machines. I remember when I used to admire other sewists using their Baby Locks way back in 2015. You couldn’t have told me that 10 years later, I would have several Baby Locks of my own. When the company reached out and invited me to join their Ambassador team in 2017, it was an enthusiastic YES! Eight years later, I’m still in LOVE with all the machines!
I love the quality stitches and extra features that help to level up my projects. I take my time with sewing and like to focus on the details. The Baby Lock Chorus affords me the opportunity to streamline some of the sewing techniques that I use to sew garments. The accessories that come with the machine further enhance my sewing experience.
If you’re in the market for an upgrade on your sewing machine, check out the Baby Lock Chorus. You can get 10% off machines, accessories, and software when you use the code SAVE10-AAM4. The offer excludes classes, getaways and Love of Knowledge (BLOK2)). Discount is a one-time use per customer account.
Now, let’s take a look at the inside of the garment.
Notions Information
You will need 1/2″ buttons for all views and the number required depends on which view you’re sewing. I used these cute COROZO NUT BUTTONS from Core Fabrics in the color Mulberry. These Eco-Friendly buttons are carved from the corozo nut. They are available in multiple colors, so you’re sure to find something to accommodate your sewing project.
Core Fabrics also sent me a spool of GUTERMANN ALL PURPOSE THREAD that is perfectly matched to my fabric. The color is called Dark Burgundy. I love it because the seams and topstitching are so beautifully blended into the fabric.
Alterations Information
I cut a size 8 and didn’t make any alterations. Based on the finished garment measurements and my desired fit, I would say the pattern is true to size.
While I didn’t make any alterations to the pattern, I did change a few details to yield a clean finish on the inside. I sewed narrow hems to finish the side seam allowances on the shirt. This way I was able to continue the same hem into the side slits and bottom of the shirt.
I added edge stitching around the sleeve cuffs, which was not included in the instructions.
Finally, I inserted the raglan sleeves using French Seams. And to alleviate any unfinished edges on the inside, I pressed the shoulder darts toward the back. The instructions guide you to trim the dart down 3/8″ and press open, then flat near point. However, that technique would leave the raw ends exposed and that definitely wouldn’t work with this shirt. It would be atrocious (in my opinion). Can you imagine all the other seams looking pristine, only to lay eyes on an unfinished dart? Oh, I shudder and clutch my pearls at the thought.
Styling Options
I plan to wear the shirt closed with jeans most of the time, but it can certainly be worn as an open layering item over other garments. First, I’ve styled it with a pair of wide leg jeans with large cuffs. This is the look I envisioned when I was planning to sew the shirt. I like this a lot because it’s very comfortable. I’ve paired it with animal print pumps, and my crochet wristlet that I made many years ago. I also added a neck scarf for added warmth on cool days. My jewelry is low key with silver stud earrings and silver/crystal beaded bracelets.
Next, I have it styled with a pair of skinny jeans. Now, I know they say skinny is out, but I’m keeping mine. I don’t really care about trends that much. This time I paired it with my burgundy pumps.
And for a very casual vibe, I’ve paired it with my sneakers and crossbody bag. This is a perfect look for running errands around town where ultimate comfort is a necessity.
Finally, I’ve styled it as a layering piece over this sleeveless, sweater knit bodycon. What a perfect color match. I love these two pieces together. This look is nice for the office or business meetings.
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 62 Comments
Hi Anita, Only today I realised how vital a shirt is in a wardrobe and can look so dressy and casual and when I checked my emails, there you are in fine form illustrating all my thoughts so very well, thank-you! They were are wonderful, the casual one is more my taste but you hit them all out of the park! Your workmanship always stirs me up and affects me in a good way to do a little better with my own sewing. I’m so grateful for the closeups of all your interior seams… when I look at the finish it makes me try a little harder to get things just right too. We can always do better but it might also help that you are sewing on really good machines. I wonder if perhaps it is time to upgrade to a new machine.. might make a difference? So thank-you dear Anita may our loving Heavenly Father bless you, I hope you continue to produce these fine garments and please take care. It sure does us all good to take a little break now and again to tend to other areas. We all need to do that from time to time … I know I do 🙂
Oh Anita, how have you been doing? That shirt looks so fabulous inside and out you always do a good job.
Hi Gwendolyn! I’m doing very well and hope you are too. Thank you. I love this shirt so much.
My favorite style is with skinny jeans. It looks great on you!
I’m considering making a man’s button down shirt….what are your thoughts regarding using the same Core Fabric for a man’s shirt?
Thanks,
Ronda
Hi Ronda! Yes, this fabric will work great with for a man’s shirt.
I never comment on anything online (until now), and I delete most e-mails I get, even the ones I subscribe to, but I save all of yours. Your style and the garments you make are always beautiful and inspiring. Love them all! I just wish you had made a wedding dress because my daughter just asked me to make hers and I’m a little panicky! LOL.
Melody!!!! Well, I am totally honored to be the recipient of your first comment. And THANK YOU for remaining a subscriber for my emails. Wow! You have really put a smile on my face today.
I have NEVER made a wedding dress, so I would be panicking right along with you. I would be NO HELP! 😂 Whew! I would stress myself out trying to make every single detail perfect.
But you can do it! Don’t listen to me. You’ve GOT THIS!!! I’m cheering for you, Melody!!!! 🤗
Love this! Really smashing! And you rock everything.
Thank you so much.
Lovely! All of the style options are on point. Thank you so muchfor sharing your adventures with us!
Thank you 💕 I’m glad you enjoyed the post.
Beautiful as always
Thank you so much, Ginger.
Your tunic is gorgeous. Love your different stylings of it.!
Thank you Pam.
I want to make this,. You make everything look so classy.
Thank you Charmaine. That is totally my desire.
Love your shirt especially with your scarf it looks amazing
Thank you Lynne! I love it with the scarf too.
I’d say it’s Anita for the win with this make! Wonderful, as always! You are certainly a great ambassador for Baby Lock because the things you make are so lovely. I’m not planning on playing polo, but a button-down shirt is my favorite because they are so versatile, as you have shown with this one. It’s unfortunate there are mistakes on the pattern and directions and I would agree it’s not an easy pattern for a beginning sewist unless there is someone next to you to help such as in a sewing course.
Thank you Mary Jean! Yes, I love the versatility of a button-down shirt.
This is so beautiful!! Very well done.
Thank you Kierra! 💕
OMG!!! This is SO GORGEOUS!!! I love the color, the style and the fit on you… Just everything! ❤️❤️❤️. You never disappoint us with your creativity and styling!
Myra!!! Thank you so much. I know how much you love sewing tops. 🤗
I love the shirt and how you created multiple ways to style it. All the outfits are cute.
Thank you La’Sherry! 💕
Impeccable sewing as always, Anita! I also agree about not slashing and opening the darts. Your completed project is finished both inside and out. Love the buttons, too, with your beautiful buttonholes. You can tell you take the time and the extra effort in your projects, and it certainly shows. Wear it in good health!
A quick question: How did you select the Baby Lock Chorus — did you get it for the wider sewing surface? (Not sure what is the correct name for the surface surrounding the needle and presser foot.)
Hi Susan! Thank you so much for all your encouraging compliments. I chose the Chorus for several reasons, a few being; the embroidery feature which I’ve been wanting to learn for quite a while; the wide sewing table was a big determinant; and the self threading needle feature sealed the deal. There’s a lot more features that I love but those three were very exciting for me.
Anita, I totally get about the self-threading needle. I had an ancient Kenmore machine that threaded from left to right, easy peasy. When that machine died (and the foot pedal started smoking in the carpeting), I pitched it and my sister gave me an old Singer. This one threads from front to back, and you can barely get your fingers in front of the presser foot to pull the thread away from the needle. Obviously some non-sewist developed this stupid arrangement, so I understand your reasons for the new machine. Good tools make all the difference, and good talent definitely deserves them!
your outfit is so cute
Thank you Delores
This is a perfect shirt. The details are on point.
Love the styling options as well. Before I saw your last picture, I envisioned it with something a little more dressy…..very nice.
I had for years, probably decades, a similar top in Burgundy, Black and Navyn that I brought from NY and Company….timeless to me 🙂
Lynette, I absolutely love the dressed up look too. I can’t wait to sew this pattern in many other colors.
Anita,
You did such a wonderful job! Your fine tuning is superb! I always learn something new from your blog. I like how you matched the shirt with a dress and also the history behind shirts.
Thank you so much for sharing your expertise.
Laura, I’m so glad to hear you enjoy and learn from my blog posts. Thank you for being here.
So beautiful! What a great color. Also, those French seams!! 😍 I really appreciate seeing how you finish garments, I learn so much. Also, it is really helpful to see how you style a garment after you make it. I think this is a practice I would benefit from doing with my own makes. Thank you for sharing!
I’m so glad you’re learning so much here, Bridgid! That really blesses my heart. I love trying to get a variety of styling options from the separates I make. It’s so much fun to play around with styling. 🤗
Absolutely love this tunic!!!!
Thank you Monica
Anita, I’m so glad you’re back!!! A tunic like this is needed in my wardrobe! I love, love, love this rich color. The tunic with the jeans is smart but it with the dress is mind-blowing. I have to do something like this when I sew my shell top and skirt. As always, your sewing is impeccable. Thanks for not just a great sew but for another great idea. You’re the best!!
Thank you so much, my beautiful De! When I pulled out that dress and saw that it was a perfect color match, I literally squealed. I love that combination so much. 💕🤗💕
Welcome back, Anita. I missed you. What a beautiful top, well made and coordinates with so many other pieces. Color, fit, style-just beautiful as usual!
Hi Brenda! Thank you so much. It feels good to be back on the machine.
I like the shirt with the wide leg jeans
Thank you Karen! I love that look too.
Hi Anita, I really like this top, but I especially like it either the dress! 😊 The material is nice & the color is beautiful. Thanks for sharing!
I love it with the dress too! It’s a very classy look. 💕
Hi Anita,thanks for remembering me.The look is so smart on you,l loved the styled top you looked amazing on wide jeans ,l hope to make one.thanks
You’re very welcome, Jamila! Oh, I just love the top paired with the wide leg jeans. I plan to wear it that way a lot. 🤗
Absolutely gorgeous and versatile piece for your wardrobe!
I love the stitching and the matching buttons.
Well done!!
I love the matching buttons so much. They are perfect! Thank you so much.
Really love that rich color and I love the clean seams on the inside. Excellent work and it looks great on you and how you styled it.
Thank you Pam! I love the clean finishing on the inside too. 💕
I love to see what you sew and how you use it with different pieces, ie you dress it up, make it casual, everyday use. You are a true fashionista! I ordered this pattern on Etsy. I hope I can do it justice when I make it. I haven’t started back sewing clothes yet (I switched to quilting quite a while ago), but you have inspired me to add making clothes to my project list.
I love that you enjoy seeing the styling options, Lorraine. This tunic is so versatile and I’m totally looking forward to getting years of wear from it, dressed up and down. Yaaayyy! Have fun sewing your top and getting back into garment sewing. 🤗
I absolutely love this tunic! You did, as always, exquisite work.
Thank you, Christine!
WOW ! !
Thank you! It’s definitely a WOW piece in my wardrobe now because of the versatility. I love it so much.
A must have! I love the versatility and the color. This goes on my list immediately.
Lydia, it is a must have indeed! The versatility is AWESOME! YES, have fun making your shirt.