Style Arc Cara top – this time for the teen
When Clare saw my version of the Style Arc Cara top, she promptly declared that she wanted one too. I pondered, because she’s not really in adult size patterns yet. However, when I checked the Style Arc website I discovered that their patterns start at an Australian size 4. I figured that it was worth a go.
I managed to buy a copy of the downloadable pdf when Style Arc had a pdf sale on Etsy. I really didn’t feel like grading down my size 12 version! There aren’t many pattern pieces, so it didn’t take long to tape together the A4 pattern pieces. I don’t mind taping when there aren’t loads of pieces, and I was after immediate gratification. Downloadable pdf patterns are always great in that regard!
I cut this as a straight size 4 without alterations. I figured that the length would be quite adequate for Clare, especially since in many ways her proportions are like mine – she has long legs for her height and a proportionately shorter torso. The fabric is navy tencel from Clear It. That reminds me – I need to sew up the pair of pants that I have cut out from the same fabric!
I decided not to interface the front neckband, as the fabric is relatively substantial. This appeared to work out okay. I also made certain when I inserted the elastic into the back neckband piece that I could access it in case I needed to shorten it to fit Clare better. As it turned out, that was a good idea – once I was home from Sewjourn and she tried it on, I needed to shorten the back elastic by a number of inches for the top to stay up!
This is a very straightforward garment to sew. I mostly used the overlocker for construction. Hems were finished on the overlocker, then turned to the inside in a narrow hem and stitched on the machine. Easy peasy. Just watch out for them stretching out a little and rippling on sections that become bias (i.e. learn from my mistakes).
This top has already had quite a bit of wear. Definitely a wardrobe hit with the teen – and it’s good to jump right onto the off the shoulder/cold shoulder/split sleeve trend before it disappears!
It looks so lovely and the colour is perfect for her!
So cute. Looks lovely on Clare – she wears navy well. And oh, growing up so fast…..
Really nice. That Tencel is so lush!
Oh my gosh, she is so grown up. Such a lovely outfit for a beautiful young teen.
A really cute top, she looks great in it. Kudos to mum 😃.
I love could shoulder tops and this one is really sweet, well done
lovely top – I totally adore the colour! Clare looks just gorgeous, and in the first and last photos in particular she looks soooo like you! (right down to the pose!)
Gorgeous top. Now you know size 4 fits, she’ll be wanting all the Style Arc patterns.
Looks lovely on her. Cute outfit overall.
Absolutely love this style! Do you think this crepe de chine would work for this pattern, or would it be too light? I can’t wait to try it out!
http://www.moodfabrics.com/black-off-white-striped-polka-dots-on-a-crepe-de-chine-311708.html
It would feel lovely and floaty – should work okay!