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Saturday, 17 May 2014

Style Arc Issy Top

I received the Style Arc Issy Knit Top as the free pattern with a recent order I placed. It looked interesting and I had some suitable fabric in the stash so I thought I would try it out.

This fabric was left over from my Style Arc Fay Skirt. I could even wear this top with the skirt to create the illusion of a dress.
Style Arc Issy Knit Top

 This is a very intriguing design that creates a clever cross-over draped neckline. There is ruching at the side seams and an asymmetrical hemline. The instructions were fairly brief but they did provide a few diagrams illustrating how it goes together. I must say that I did a lot of reading and re-reading the instructions and a bit of head scratching before it became clear...but the result was worth the extra brain strain.
A closer view
Back View (notice the neck band)
The snug neckband makes this a great design for the cooler months. This may be a little too warm for a summer top, even with short sleeves.
Side seam ruching

Less ruching on the shorter side.
The side seam ruching is great for hiding a few lumps and bumps around the tummy region. Very figure flattering. The fabric was a fairly light weight silky jersey. My sewing machine didn't like it very much, which resulted in a few skipped stitches despite using my walking foot and a jersey No. 70 needle. I used a twin needle to finish off the hems and I also used steam a seam lite which does help.
Asymmetrical neckline with draping.

 I made the size 12 with no alterations. This was a smidge too tight across the bust which interfered with the drape a little.
Side view of neckline drape.

 I was very mindful of the floral pattern on the fabric and I spent quite a bit of time laying out the pattern, making sure that I didn't position a flower directly over a boob. I'm quite pleased with the result. The neckline is quite high and very modest on this top. This could be easily tweaked to be made a little lower, if desired.

This top has been a great addition to my wardrobe and can be worn dressed up or dressed down which makes it very versatile.

 Happy Sewing
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14 comments:

  1. Linda T17 May 2014 at 22:45

    A very pretty version of this top. I wasn't really "taken" with this pattern, but I really like your version!

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    1. Sew, Jean Margaret18 May 2014 at 21:54

      Thanks Linda T. I felt the same about this pattern when it came as the free pattern with my Style Arc order. However, now I have made it I really like it.

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  2. Unknown17 May 2014 at 22:49

    Very cute! I have this pattern as well and hope to sew it up soon

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    1. Sew, Jean Margaret18 May 2014 at 21:55

      Thanks Carrie. I'm looking forward to seeing your version.

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  3. MaciNic18 May 2014 at 00:14

    This is lovely, gorgeous fabric & very flattering on you. I do like the high back neckline.

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    1. Sew, Jean Margaret18 May 2014 at 21:56

      Thanks for your lovely comment MaciNic. The high back neckline is great for the cooler weather.

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  4. KellysSewing18 May 2014 at 04:43

    You should be a Style Arc model! I love your top. Very flattering fit and very interesting neckline.

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    1. Sew, Jean Margaret18 May 2014 at 21:57

      You're too kind Kelly. Thanks for the nice comment.

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  5. kbenco18 May 2014 at 19:15

    Such a gorgeous top. I love the neckline draping, so interesting! Your fabric suits it perfectly.

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    1. Sew, Jean Margaret18 May 2014 at 21:59

      Thank you kbenco. The neckline draping certainly adds interest to this top. It all came together quite well considering it was a free pattern made with some leftover fabric from another project.

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    2. Gabrielle19 May 2014 at 20:26

      I couldn't imagine what this top would look like from the line drawing, but it looks lovely - great for the cold weather and the draping and gathering makes it so much more interesting than your average winter top. I recently ordered a couple of style arc patterns; I can make them look as nice as you've made this look!

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    3. Sew, Jean Margaret20 May 2014 at 18:37

      Thanks very much Gabrielle. I look forward to seeing your Style Arc garments.

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  6. Sharon21 May 2014 at 20:50

    Very interesting neckline and good to see if made up in your gorgeous fabric.

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    Replies
    1. Sew, Jean Margaret21 May 2014 at 22:27

      Thanks Sharon. This is quite an interesting pattern with a pleasing result.

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