1.6.2020 update: the Montrose Top PDF pattern is now available in sizes 12-32.
Is there anything more versatile than a fantastically fitting woven sleeved top? I don’t think so! That’s why I’m thrilled to introduce you to our latest curvy & plus size woven top pattern: the Montrose Top.
I’ll be honest: ever since we designed this pattern, it’s been my most worn garment. In a rayon, silk, double gauze or drapey cotton lawn it’s an awesome smart-casual pairing for jeans, and in a sheer or lace fabric it’s a great going-out top, together with some evening pants or even a long swishy skirt.
The Montrose Top‘s design is simple with thoughtful details, and as always, we’re dedicated to creating a curve-friendly fit with minimal alterations. So, in addition to having our exclusive cup sizing in sizes C – H, we also have a new feature with this pattern: two sleeve options, in “standard” and “full bicep” sizes. Fitting sleeves is often a challenge for curvy sewists, and so we hope these pieces will help you skip another pattern adjustment and help you get instant sewing gratification.
View A of our curvy & plus size woven top pattern features a gentle scoop neck, and curved back yoke, with a gently gathered back panel. It comes with a short sleeve, but you can interchange any of the sleeves (short, elbow-length, standard, full-bicep) with either view.
Ali’s wearing hers in a gorgeous soft rayon from Cotton + Steel’s Rifle Paper Collection which has a perfect amount of drape for the Montrose. Want your top to be a bit longer or shorter? There are lengthen/shorten lines, so that’s an easy change to make.
View B is designed for luxe fabrics! I am a huge fan of sheer overlay garments, and View B was designed with them in mind, with a jewel neckline, elbow-length sleeves, and a simple back with a keyhole opening at the top. You can also mix and match the fronts and backs to your heart’s desire, and although this view was designed for sheers, you can use opaque fabrics too.
Dawn is wearing a Montrose Top made from a gorgeous cobalt blue guipure lace that I sourced here. I adore this style of lace because I think the chunky motifs make it really modern and fresh, and it’s actually a lot easier to sew with than you think. If you need a bit more stabilization in the seams, you can add a strip of silk organza to help. Plus a big bonus is no hemming! You can just cut the fabric along the edge of the motifs and it won’t unravel.
I picked up a whole bunch of fabric to make Montrose Tops on my recent trip to Australia & Japan and I can’t wait to sew them all up – get ready to see a whole lot more Montroses coming your way!
Let me know if you have any questions, and make sure to hashtag your makes with #MontroseTop so we can see all your amazing garments.
I’ve already ordered the top and two versions of the embroidered net. I’ll be wearing the one embroidered net version over a sleeveless maxi dress for my daughter’s wedding. I’d love suggestions for dress pattern – something slightly above natural waist with skirt that can be lengthened and won’t be too gathered. I don’t want to have to put a slit in it but enough width for ease of walking. I’m short, curvy and can’t wear heels – sob! Also, would love pointers on sewing with the embroidered net. Of course, I plan to make lots with some lovely cotton as well for the summer.
Where did you source the fabric you’re wearing?
The floral mesh was bought from EmmaOneSock, who are currently out of stock (though they have lots of other beautiful embroidered mesh); it is still available from Stonemountain & Daughter.
I love this pattern! Am planning to make on lace with a fancy border, which will require laying the pattern out to take advantage of the fancy edge. Does the pattern layout page give directions for this? I’d like to have the nice edge for both the body and the sleeves. Don’t want to screw up the layout on such pricey yard goods.
There isn’t in the instructions booklet but we will be covering working with lace in the sewalong
absolutely love your examples. I just bought a scalloped embroidered mesh that I was going to make a capelet to wear over a strapless dress but I love the idea of a shirt because it would get worn at other times.
I love this pattern and am getting ready to sew it but am confused about pattern piece 7 keyhole facing PLZ PLZ help
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