Matcha Top by Sew Liberated

by Cameron

Have you all been following the return of Sew Liberated?! Meg McElwee was one of the first independent pattern makers in my sewing world. The Schoolhouse Tunic and the Clara Dress are two of her very flattering patterns that have been perennial favorites here at Bolt. She's coming back to pattern design after a hiatus, and she seems to have spent her time away reading minds because she's putting out exactly the patterns that I've been searching for. It looks like many sewists feel equally understood judging by Instagram fervor over her new designs.

I know I look like I've just been arrested here, but I FEEL like a million bucks in this shirt

I made up her Matcha Top as a store sample and I love it. Loooooove it. It's got nice details like a mandarin collar and a shoulder piece (you might call that an epaulet? a civilian epaulet?), but it's still a relatively quick project.

I used an amazing, wonderful, perfect Nani Iro lawn - that we don't have in stock anymore. We do have many other amazing, wonderful, perfect Nani Iro options that would be ideal. A solid silk noil or lightweight linen would make a closet workhorse. How about shot cottons? Yes, please!

Now, a special note for those of you that are breastfeeding, soon to be breastfeeding, or just enjoy flashing people with ease. The Matcha Top is the shirt for which you've been waiting. The pattern offers two v-neck options, one higher and one lower for easier breastfeeding access. That v-neck option doesn't work for me as a breastfeeding mom (and I don't think it'll be convenient for you exhibitionists either), but the wide hemline is perfect. Part of Meg's mission with Sew Liberated is to make clothing that flatters the coveted mom bod and works for mom lives (or anyone who spends a lot of time sitting on the floor and lifting up your top). As a new mom still adjusting to my new body, I love her interesting designs. I can't wait to try out some of the other patterns she has coming down the pipeline.

The Matcha also has sleeveless and three-quarter sleeved options and would be easy to lengthen into a tunic or dress. Mom/flasher or not, there's a lot to love here! Come in to try on our sample and fall in love, like me.