Hi Everyone! Happy Monday!! I have a great NEW Top Pattern to share with you today. This is the Charlotte Top by Sonia Estep Designs. I was so excited to be part of the testing team for this pattern. Sonia shared a “sneak peek” of this design a couple of weeks ago and it sent us all into a frenzy. A good one that is. I originally cut size 12, graded to a 14 in the waist and hips. I had planned to wear it out with a belt, but liked it better tucked in. I promptly took the sides back in, to a size 12 and it fit perfectly. I have to say the pattern sizing with this pattern brand is so consistent. This top has a lovely ruffle cascade down the front and back, attached at the flattering princess line point. It’s just the most feminine and pretty top I’ve made in a while. AND Love it!! As with all the SED patterns, there are options. You have the choice of sleeveless, short, 3/4 and long sleeve options.
It was a windy day when these photos were taken, but it shows off the ruffle pretty well. It cascades nicely right over the shoulders down the back without being too fussy. I selected this geometric, novelty knit print in my favorite shades of blues and greens and couldn’t be happier with how it turned out. The top paired nicely with my turquoise skirt for a business casual look. Comfortable and professional looking.
This design is another quick make that looks more complicated than it is. I used a combination of my serger and conventional sewing machine to construct this top. This fabrication had a tendency to run in the lengthwise direction, so I stabilized most of my edges with fusible tricot just to be safe. I’m a big believer in using a generous amount of stabilizer anyway for a nice smooth finish on my necklines (right pic below) and hems. This time I also used it for the rolled hem on the edge of the ruffle. (left pic below) I fused 1/4″ stabilizer to the ruffle edge and then turned it over and stitched at 1/8″. Next, the edge was trimmed down right to the stitching and folded over again, pressed and stitched at 1/8″. Yes, it takes a little more time, but the clean finish is worth it.
This pattern launch is working a little bit differently this time around. The Charlotte Top pattern will only be available for one day at a special launch SALE price. From 5/24 – 5/25, 10am EST. That’s only 24 hours to pick up this versatile New top pattern. So don’t wait…..get it while it’s on sale. You’ll thank me later.
