This is one of those patterns that I bought almost immediately upon release, and sewed up almost as quickly.

Unfortunately the photos are a little fuzzy, but I have to work with what I’ve got! The pattern is Style Arc’s Teddy Designer top.  From their website:  This uniquely crafted design comes in two lengths – top or tunic. The gorgeous collar sits high on the neck. The stitched facings and swing back with a high-low hemline give this style a luxe look. Make the top to give your look an instant update or make the tunic for a more effortless silhouette. FABRIC SUGGESTION Linen, silk, crepe.

Some of you may have noticed in the pants in the above diagram – they are the Teddy designer pant.  I chose not to purchase and make the coordinating pants as they have a fitted waistband and front zip opening – and I am all about the elastic waist.  I know it wouldn’t be hard to modify them, but I didn’t feel highly inclined.  I do like the line drawing though.  Some of you may also have noticed that the collar of the Teddy top has distinct similarity with the collar of the Style Arc Toni designer dress, and yes, it is constructed in a very similar manner.

I chose to sew the top length of the pattern, but there is a tunic length option as well. The top length is great on my short torso, especially when paired with a wide legged pant (the pants I’m wearing in these photos are from a 1990s McCalls pattern). The fabric is a wonderful orange linen that was originally part of Blogless Anna’s stash. I adore it! You can see the colour and self-striped texture better in the detail photos.

As you can see, the collar can be worn standing up – it’s very high, and feels rather dramatic and chic – or folded back.

There is some precision required to get the intersection of the front and collar seams exactly right. Follow the instructions, pin carefully, and even consider a bit of hand-stitching if necessary to ensure that everything lines up exactly as it should. It’s not terribly difficult, but you need to pay attention. The sleeve bands are a nice touch, and are straightforward to attach.

I constructed this top on the sewing machine, pressing seams open before finishing the seam allowances on the overlocker. I really like the amount of flare in the body of the top, and the gently shaped hemline. Facings are the perfect way to finish the bottom edge, and they’re just the right size to make the top swing nicely.

I sewed straight size 12, no alterations. It would have been worth considering a forward shoulder alteration of a centimetre or so – which is actually an alteration that I feel I should do more often in general nowadays. Otherwise I’ve selected size based on bust/shoulder measurement. Given the shape of this top I didn’t need to take waist size into account. Actually, I never choose a pattern according to my waist size anyway.

This top was an absolute hit for me – and I received many compliments on it (many from random strangers) when I first wore it! That’s always a pleasant feeling. Highly recommended!