In The Folds Pattern – Collins Top

The Collins top is a loose-fitting trapeze-shaped top designed for woven fabrics. It is A-line in shape, perfect for hot summer days. It features a round neck, panel lines, a high-low hem and a centre-back opening, with a button and loop closure. Due to its length, the Collins top is the perfect top to pair with skirts or trousers that sit on or above the natural waist.

View A includes a three-piece raglan sleeve designed with extra volume, which creates a fun and interesting shape. The neckline is finished with bias binding.

View B is sleeveless and the neckline and armholes are finished with an all-in-one facing for a really clean and professional finish.

In The Folds offers comprehensive resources to help you make your Collins top.

Supplies

View A: Matching thread, 1 x 10mm (⅜in) button, 1m (1.1 yard) x 32mm (1¼in) single-fold bias tape, 2.5m (2.75 yards) bias binding if you would like to also bind the hem (optional).

View B: Matching thread, 1 x 10mm (⅜in) button, 2.5m (2.75 yards) bias binding if you would like to bind the hem (optional).

Fabric suggestions

The Collins top is compatible with a range of different fabrics. Your choice of fabric will govern the silhouette you achieve.

Consider using light to mid-weight fabrics such as: linen, linen blends, cotton, gauze or chambray. For a softer silhouette, consider sateen, silk (crepe de chine or habotai) or viscose (rayon). Be careful if you are a beginner though, as these fabrics are a little trickier to sew. We suggest sticking to stable natural fabrics that are not too prone to fraying if you are a beginner.

Softer fabrics will drape over the bust (and create soft flowy sleeves), while stiffer fabrics will create a more voluminous and structured silhouette.

Due to the number of panels in the Collins top, it is a great pattern to use to experiment with colour blocking and stripe direction. You can download a free colouring-in template of the pattern if you would like to explore your options before cutting your fabric.