I think that at some stage I should make a list of my most-used patterns. And double check that they are also some of my most-worn garments. This one would end up on both lists.
This is the Olivia Oversize Tee, by Maria Denmark. This is the fourth time I’ve sewn this pattern. The first two are at the stage of being so well worn that they are beginning to pill and stretch out in parts. The third one was only worn once or twice because the fabric couldn’t hold up to simple things like wearing a seat belt without marking and damaging. I have high hopes for this fourth version!
Yes, usual issue with fabric pooling at lower back. Anyway, this is a terrific tee. The banded sleeves and hem make it very straightforward to sew, and I like the fit I get with the lower band. The neckline is quite scooped – almost a curved V neckline really – and a shape and depth I really like to wear. You do need to be very carefully to give the neckband plenty of stretch when applying it to that centre front curve in order for it to lay flat when wearing.
The fabric is a printed viscose/spandex knit from The Cloth Shop – I think it may have been a remnant. It has fabulous colours in it! I sew this top in a mixture of sizes. I cut it to the shortest length, and remove all the waist shaping completely so that there’s plenty of ease around my middle. From the pattern website: Olivia is super trendy, super relaxed, super easy to sew and super easy to fit! Pick out any of your favourite wool, rayon or bamboo jerseys and in about an hour, you’ll have a great top to wear with skinny jeans, tight slacks or tights! Make it in a stripe to wear with a blazer jacket for work, in a fun print for everyday joy, or in a plain fabric that goes with everything!
Finally getting this version blogged has reminded me that I need to replace my two longer sleeved striped versions! And yes, this was sewn and photographed last year.
