When scanning my syllabus at the start of the pattern making course I took last semester, I was most excited about learning how to draft cowl neck tops. When we finally got to it toward the end of the course, I was surprised how simple they actually were! Using a basic bodice sloper, it’s just a matter of lowering the neckline and slash and spreading to create fullness. The self-facing in the front keeps it pretty no matter how the cowl falls! Clearly, putting my new knowledge to use was in the forefront of my mind when I had the opportunity to use one of the fabrics from the Novelty category at Britex. This unusual ruby and black sheer viscose fabric seemed like a fun and modern choice for a fairly classic cowl shape.
This fabric isn’t an obvious choice for a cowl shape; while lightweight, it isn’t particularly drapey, behaving more like a voile. Nor could I cut on the bias (common for cowls) because of the obvious horizontal stripe. However, I kind of love how the neckline is more “origami folds” than draped.
The viscose is sheer–in these photos, I’m wearing a nude-colored tank top under this for modesty, but for cocktails or dancing, it would probably be fine without.
The self-drafted top is a basic pull-over shape, with no closures or darts. It isn’t as fitted as I normally like my tops, but it’s light and airy (especially with the sheer fabric!) and adds a different silhouette to my wardrobe. For the construction, I used French seams throughout since the fabric is a loose weave. There is a back neck facing, which attaches to the front cowl facing, and bias tape for the armholes–simple and elegant!
Bea & Lucille 
Beautiful top! I'll be checking to see your pattern when you post it. Thank you!
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Great job on your pattern.. Love your top
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Love this!
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Wonderful. I was looking at that cowl thinking how I'd love to try that. Looking forward to your pattern (and I must get the lycra booties up for you!) and I'll have a go for sure!!
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It looks fantastic! I'll be looking forward to trying the pattern when it's ready.
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Love your top and the color. Looking forward to seeing the pattern posted and giving it a try. Thanks.
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Thank you, Paula! I've posted the pattern, so be sure to take a look!
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After much nervousness, I've posted the pattern! If you make it, let me know how it works for you!
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Thank you, Judy! Even though it's work, it's pretty liberating being able to make your own (simple!) patterns 🙂
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Thank you! I hope you enjoy the pattern!
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Oh my gosh, Stephanie, hi! I was (am 🙂 pretty nervous to release my first pattern, and somehow, now, even more so to know that an old friend might be trying it out! (Hope you are well!)
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Offering a very tasteful glimpse, utter blinds may be desirable and extremely valuable for people who favor privateness. Made from partial see through and also flimsy material just like natural cotton wide lace or perhaps often weaved polyester voile, utter blinds enable the greatest transmission involving mild.
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