Category: Fashion Inspiration

Cozy Valentine’s Dress: McCall’s 6713 Review

Happy belated Valentine’s Day, everyone! This year, I wanted to create something that felt both cozy and special for the occasion. I, well my husband choose the dress pattern and t eh fabric from my stash, chose a dress that would be comfortable for a relaxed evening. It also needed to be stylish enough to make me feel festive. Enter McCall’s 6713—a versatile knit dress pattern I’ve had my eye on for a while!

Fabric Choice: Deep Burgundy, White, and Gray Knit

I wanted a fabric that would feel soft and comfortable. It also needed a bit of elegance for the holiday. After browsing through CaliFabrics, I found a deep burgundy, white, and gray knit that instantly caught my eye. It’s a medium-weight knit. It gave me the perfect amount of stretch for this pattern. It still holds its shape beautifully.

The colors are just right for Valentine’s Day—a bit romantic without being too overt—and the combination of the burgundy with white and gray gives it a contemporary, chic vibe. It’s definitely not your typical Valentine’s color palette, but it feels fresh and modern, and I love that.

The Pattern: McCall’s 6713

McCall’s 6713 is such a great pattern for creating a stylish yet easy-to-wear dress. I chose View C, which has a lovely draped front and back, creating a flattering shape without being too tight or constricting.

What I love most about McCall’s 6713 is how versatile it is. You could easily dress it up with a cute cardigan or jacket if the weather calls for it. I opted for a clean, simple finish—no accessories needed! The drape of the fabric, combined with the design of the dress, gives it a sleek, effortless look that’s perfect for a low-key, romantic dinner.

Construction Notes

As always, I love working with knits, and this fabric sewed up beautifully. I used a ballpoint needle for my sewing machine and a stretch stitch to keep everything stretchy and comfortable. I didn’t make any major modifications to the pattern since it fit well straight out of the envelope, but I did shorten the length slightly to suit my height.

One thing I will note is that the pattern does call for a lining in the bodice. I find that it gives a cleaner finish on the inside

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a comfy yet stylish dress to wear on date night or any occasion where you want to feel cute but don’t want to sacrifice comfort—McCall’s 6713 is a great option. Paired with the right fabric, it’s a timeless piece that you’ll reach for all year long.

I’m already thinking of making another version in a lighter, brighter fabric for spring—maybe with a floral print! Have you sewn this pattern yet? I’d love to hear about your projects in the comments below!

Happy sewing and happy belated Valentine’s Day!

Sew Your Perfect Valentine’s Dress: 4 Must-Try Patterns

Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to sew up something romantic, flirty, and fabulous! You are planning a date night. Maybe you are organizing a Galentine’s get-together. Or you just want to treat yourself to something handmade. I’ve rounded up four sewing patterns that are perfect for the occasion, in my opinion. ❤️ These McCall’s and Simplicity patterns offer a mix of elegance, drama, and comfort. You can look amazing on the most romantic day of the year. You’ll also feel incredible.

1. McCall’s 6713 – The Perfect Wrap Dress

McCall’s 6713 is a classic wrap dress with a figure-flattering silhouette. With its gathered bodice, waist tie, and flared skirt, it’s ideal for a soft and romantic Valentine’s look. Select a slinky knit fabric in red, blush, or deep burgundy. This will help you create a dress that hugs your curves in all the right places. Pair it with strappy heels and statement earrings for a timeless, sophisticated vibe.

This one is my choice this year. Stay tuned for a full look in my upcoming blog – What I Made and Wore for Valentine’s Day.

2. McCall’s 7531 – The Bodycon Stunner

If you’re looking for a sleek and sultry dress, McCall’s 7531 is your go-to pattern and one of my favorites. I call it my Tried and True (TNT) pattern, when I need a new dress. This bodycon knit dress is perfect for showing off your shape while keeping things elegant. The pattern has multiple sleeve variations. You can modify it to suit your style. Choose among sleeveless, long-sleeved, or off-the-shoulder looks.

For Valentine’s Day, consider sewing this in a velvet, ribbed knit, or a stretch satin for an ultra-glamorous effect. Here are a few of the makes I have made with this pattern.

3. McCall’s 7833 – The Elegant, Classic Look

McCall’s 7833 is a gorgeous dress pattern featuring a fitted bodice and a 3 skirt length variations for Valentine’s Day. The sleeve options and shaped hemlines with delicate details make it a feminine, romantic choice.

This pattern works beautifully with Velvet, Jersey, and interlock Knit. You can choose a classic red. You might prefer a soft blush. You could opt for a floral print. Whichever you choose, you’ll have a stunning dress that’s both elegant and comfortable.

mccalls 7833

4. Simplicity 8982 – Sassy, Cute

Simplicity 8982 is the perfect pattern for creating a stylish and versatile dress. You can dress it up or down. It is an ideal addition to your wardrobe for any occasion, especially Valentine’s Day. Choose a red, burgundy or black and white combo, red accessories of course and you have the perfect outfit. This pattern is great whether you’re a seasoned sewist. It is also suitable for a beginner looking for a fun project. It offers a range of design options. It can suit your style and is simple enough to tackle in a weekend.

As we wrap up this Valentine’s Day sewing inspiration, I hope these four dress ideas have sparked your creativity! Whether you’re looking for something romantic, fun, or playful, there’s a design here to fit every style and mood. Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to express yourself through fabric and fashion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with colors, textures, and prints. Choose ones that make you feel fabulous.

Happy sewing, and may your creations be as heartwarming as the love you’re celebrating! Let me know which dress you’re most excited to sew, and don’t forget to share your finished projects with me. I can’t wait to see what you make!

Happy 2025

Welcome to my blog,

I’m Riesha (Ree-sha), known as RieshaNicolle across all social media platforms. I started my sewing journey in 2014, the year my mom passed away from stomach cancer. She was my world and when she gained her angel wings, I needed something to help me with the grief of missing her. So, I turned to Sewing. What started out as therapy for me, turned into a love for creating my own garments. Through my blog, I am excited to share my journey with all that are interested.

I am married, this year we celebrate 27 years in September. I have 2 adult children, a daughter, and a son. I love fitness, food, and fashion. I call it my 3 favorite F words. During the day, I work as a Staff Services Manager I for the State of California in an Investment Office, managing our Executive Support Team.

My first sewing machine had been purchased 2 years prior to me making a garment on it. I purchased it from Costco, yes Costco, to do borders on papercrafts, as I was into Scrapbooking photos of my 2 kids. At the time, I had no idea what I was doing with the sewing machine.

Please follow me on the following social media accounts:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rieshanicolle

Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/rieshanicolle

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RieshaSimmons

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/RieshaNicolle

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@rieshanicolle

Amazon Storefront https://amzn.to/4jqdqCu

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@rieshanicolles

Here are a few of my favorite makes from past years.

Let’s explore the endless possibilities of needle and thread together – one stitch at a time!

The Sew Life with Riesha Nicolle – What I Made in January

I can not believe it is already February. January came and went so fast. Did you get any sewing done? Did you make a list of the things you want to achieve? I did both. I spent a lot of hours in my sewing space and a lot of time reading up on new techniques I want to learn and I made my #makenine9 list. I actually completed the first pattern. The 2 pieces will need to be worn as separates as I didn’t have enough fabric of either choice to make a full outfit. I was serious about the pattern and fabric fast for January. I didn’t even step foot in a craft store. Yay ME!!!

So let’s see what I made in January and what I am working on now:

  • First make of 2024 was the Tuesday Tote from the Knotted Threads Co. It was super easy to make and I love how it turned out. It is a beginner friendly pattern. For the outside I used some left over Camouflage Canvas and some Faux leather that I purchased to redo some chairs I had and never finished them.
  • Second make McCall’s 7475 Tops – Made these as part of the Stash busting challenge in the Sew Much Talent Instagram group. I made the top twice with left over scrap fabric that was in my stash.
  • Third make was Vogue 1929 – Not sure how I feel about this one. It didn’t come out as I expected it to. It was an easy sew, but I think I need another fabric choice. I don’t know, maybe once I style it, I will change my mind.
  • Fourth make – Vogue 9319 I am absolutely in love with these pants. They were an easy make. I usually shy away from zippers, but I picked patterns that will challenge my skills. The challenge in this one was the zipper. If you know me, you know I am not a fan of zippers.
  • Fifth make was the top to Vogue 9319 – this one turned out really cute too. I used leftover denim for the main fabric and left over cotton fabric that looks like denim, from a dress I cut out but haven’t sewn up yet. 

Up Next: Know Me 2054 by Keechi B Style – View B Cargo Pants – with wrap fly waistband and multiple pockets on front and back. Here is a sneak peek of what I am working with. This pattern is not part of my Make Nine, but it was on my list to make. There is a lot of work on this pair of pants, due to the details on the pockets. I have been sewing a little bit each night, about a hour or so, to not be overwhelmed and to make them look good. Practicing my patience.

Until Next Time, Go sew Something.

The Sew Life with Riesha Nicolle – Make Nine 2024 Edition

Here we are again back at the beginning of 2024 and talking about our Make Nine for the year. I create a list every year. Sometimes I complete them and sometimes I don’t. WIth 2024 being my year of consistency, that’s my word for the year by the way, I was like why not.

The most important outfit of 2024 will be whatever I am going to make for Chicago Frocktails. This event is taking place in Chicago June 8 – 9, 2024. More details to come on this outfit as they are available. I will do a whole recording of what I am making and the process. You will be able to find it on my YouTube channel. 

How did I come up with my list? Well a couple of things.

  • I based it off of the skills I want to learn
  • Things I struggle with, for example zippers and buttons
  • Style of the pattern
  • Sewing Level, beginner, intermediate, advanced
  • Fabric type

Beginner patterns are always my go to for a quick and easy sew. These are good for last minute, I don’t have anything in my closet to wear, patterns. I have a few Tried and True (TNT) patterns that I refuse to give up.

Intermediate patterns are patterns that challenge my skills and I here for it. I have been sewing since 2014 and it is time to step up my game. There is no reason I shouldn’t be making these patterns.

Advanced patterns are the patterns that I will be making towards the end of the 3rd quarter in 2024. I will build all my skills needed to move forward and be comfortable picking up these patterns to sew.

So let’s get into this list. Of course with new patterns coming out for Spring/Summer/Winter I may want to change a few, but for now, this is my list. I will be making these in this order.

  1. Vogue 9319 – Very Easy Vogue Misses’ Tops, Shorts, and Pants – View B and View D

Skills to learn: Wide Front and Back Yokes, Pockets, and Back Zipper

    2. Vogue 1674 – Easy Misses’ Dress – View A – Colorblock

    Skills to Learn: Lining and Invisible Zipper

    3. Simplicity 8702 – Misses’ Knit Jacket, Pants and Leggings- View A and View C

    Skills to learn: Color Blocking, Zippers, and Drawstring

    4. McCall’s 8438 – Intermediate Misses’ Coats and Vest – View A

    Skills to learn: Buttonholes and Buttons

    5. Simplicity 9700 – Intermediate – Misses’ Jumpsuit – View A

    Skills to learn: Topstitching, Zipper, Set in Sleeves, Buttoned Cuffs, Buttoned Pockets, Side Pockets, and Belt Carriers

    6. Simplicity 9893 Misses’ Cape by Mimi G Style– Intermediate

    Skills to learn: Cargo Pockets, Inverted Pleats and Flaps, Storm Flap, Buttons, Tabs, Convertible Sleeve

    7. Know Me 2063 by Brittany J. Jones – Intermediate – View A

    Skills to learn: Elastic Casing, Side Pockets, Front Fly Zipper

    8. Know Me 2067 by The Stitch Fitz Advanced- Misses’ Dress – View (undecided)

    Skills to learn: Lined Bodice, Boning, Optional Straps and Invisible Back Zipper

    9. Simplicity 9894 by Mimi G Style – Intermediate – Misses’ and Women’s Top and Skirt – View A and B

    Skills to learn: Bust Cups, Zippers, Topstitching

    Until Next Time, Go Sew Something,