Cowl Neck Top by So Sew Easy

With my recent year-end post, I reflected on my 2014 makes and my goals for 2015.  The most important goal was to sew for my lifestyle.  I pondered on that goal and decided in my own little head to expand on that goal and include filling in the holes in my wardrobe.

The first hole was knit tops with a dressy look particularly to wear with some drapey cardigans that have been added thanks to some beautiful gifts and sales.

I went with Cowl Neck Top by So Sew Easy 
available at Indiesew

I had the perfect knit rayon jersey in my stash but since it was tissue weight and rayon jersey is clingy, I cut this pattern just a bit bigger.  

One thing about this pattern, the sizing is different so check the bust measurement and pick the most appropriate size.  Sizing is 1 to 7 and I went with a 4 (bust 37).  I also measured the flat pattern to double check my sizing choice and to check the hip measurement.

I added 1" to the top and sleeve length, which was perfect for the sleeves but probably not necessary for the top length.  I found this top to be very long.

While we are on  sleeve length, I went with the long sleeve version (this pattern has sleeveless, 3/4 length and long) , it works under the sweater and alone for a fun top with jeans or ponte pants.  The top length is very much a tunic length and I am so pleased with how versatile this will be in my wardrobe.

The instructions have you cut the front on the bias, which I did.  I think for this fabric this was unnecessary but for a fabric with less drape, bias would enable a more complimentary drape.

Allie, from Indiesew, has a beautiful long-sleeve version on her blog and this look really helped in my decision on pattern and sleeve type.

The pattern includes a back facing, which I did not use instead I just turned under the seam allowance and used my coverstitch to finish the back neck edge.

The back neckline does dip down pretty low so adjust if you want.  I do like how it looks and adds a bit of drama to the top.

I love my new top,and tend to be drawn to cowl neck tops, which by the way this one at $5.95 is a bargain.

Disclosure: This year I am part of the Indiesew blogger team and am able to select a pattern for review periodically.  The choice of pattern and review is all my own.