I was perusing the New Horizons website the other day, looking for a new pattern to try, when the Dublin Dolman caught my eye. I’ve made a few dolmans in the past, and love them for their quick construction and easy style. Terra also usually includes a variety of fun options even in her most basic patterns, so I was looking forward to seeing what the Dublin had to offer.
When I took a closer look at the line drawings, I found what I expected- several unique options- including a beautiful gathered front view. However, as I took a look at my closet later that evening to determine which colors/fabrics would be a best fit with my summer wardrobe, I kept coming back to the simplicity of the basic short sleeved scoop neck version.
I think the heat also played a role here- maybe it’s the iron, or the fabric “insulation”, but my sewing room isn’t the coolest place in the house right now, and I top out after about 30 minutes in there, so the basic 3-seams-and-you’re-done view was just the quick fix I needed to avoid laundry and get back to my iced tea ASAP.
I’ve really been loving tie dye lately (again, I’m in full summer mode over here), and this beautiful blue bamboo/rayon spandex blend from Knitpop was calling to me from the pile of fabrics I’ve yet to put away from my trip. I love the vertical design on this- it’s unique, and lends a sophisticated look to an otherwise casual print.
I did change up the finish on the front a bit, opting for a narrow single fold binding instead of the wider double fold/band options in the pattern. This was an easy switch, and I’m offering a tutorial on it tomorrow if you’re interested!
Sometimes I buy a pattern with the full intention of only making it once- and others stay on my go-to shelf for years. I think this is going to be in the latter category, as I cut another one out right away, from a heathered grey modal knit from Surge Fabrics.
On this second version I did use a slightly smaller seam allowance at the arm opening and underarm area, tapering back into a full 3/8″ at the waist and below, to give my arms more room. I know these photos look polished, but I was literally dripping with sweat here, so the extra airflow was appreciated.
I have to say, the weight and drape of the modal is amazing. I expected it to feel alot like bamboo, but it has a slight sheen and a beautiful fluid hand. If you’re like me, and wondering how in the heck that’s pronounced, it’s “mow-doll”. See? Even the name has an instant cosmopolitan feel- and while it’s not an eye catching print, I know this top will be on repeat for the foreseeable future- it’s going to help fill the (rather large) neutrals hole in my closet.
If you’re wondering, this top is fully nursing friendly- the neckline is plenty low enough for over the top access, and the bottom is loose enough to be pulled up if you’re a cami-underneath kind of gal!
What’s your go-to pattern right now for a simple top? I’d love to hear about it- especially if it falls into the “quick fix” category!
Don’t forget to follow me on YouTube to get access to the binding tutorial I’ll be posting tomorrow- I’d love to hear what you think!
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