I made the Helen's Closet Gilbert Top and McCalls 7757 pants as a matching set.
Pattern Sizing: Gilbert 0-30 / M7757 XS-XL. I made a size 0 in the Gilbert, and a size XS in M7757.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Mostly. I sewed the Gilbert Top View A but omitted the tie and I made the pants cropped length.
Were the instructions easy to follow? I found that both patterns had good, clear instructions.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
Likes: I enjoyed the construction of the Gilbert with the burrito yoke/facing. The McCalls pants were very quick and easy to sew.
Dislikes: I have found that Helen's Closet patterns don't fit me that well out of the packet and I need to do a fair amount of adjustments. I also dislike the foldover waistband of the pants. I would prefer a separate waistband piece.
Fabric Used: I used a Minerva exclusive viscose. It's a beautiful print and has a nice weight to it. It was perfect as a summery coord set.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: For the Gilbert, I graded to a size 2 on the upper back and the sleeves. However, I still found the sleeves tight and had to take smaller seam allowances. For my next make I need to do a narrow shoulder adjustment, a broad back adjustment, and a full bicep adjustment. I left off the ties and made the hem like View B but cropped. Ironically I thought it looked better tied at the waist.
On the McCalls pants, i shortened them about 12 inches to make them cropped. I am only 4'9". I used a cheap elastic from Amazon that stretched out when I topstitched it to keep it from twisting. So I added belt loops so that I can cinch it in at the waist.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I honestly can't say that I will sew either pattern again--the Gilbert b/c I'd like to find a similar pattern that fits me better and needs fewer adjustments, and the McCalls because I have some other elastic waist pants patterns that I prefer.
Conclusion: it's a cute set, but I feel like it leans towards fancy pjs. I don't think I will make it again but I'm happy with this one for summer loungewear.
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