Introducing the Charlotte Top – A Little Romance, Made by Hand

I’ve been keeping this one quietly to myself for a little while… but now I’m so happy to finally introduce you to my new sewing pattern: the Charlotte Top.

I actually designed Charlotte last year. It started as one of those ideas that I just couldn’t shake — a halter-style top that was feminine, versatile, and simple enough to sew without feeling overwhelming. But sometimes designs need a little time to sit. I wanted to live with it, wear it, and refine the details until it felt truly right.

And now? I feel ready to share it with you.

The Design

Charlotte is all about balance: a graceful cross-front detail that feels a little dramatic, a sweet bow at the back for softness, and clean lines that make it endlessly wearable.

When I was perfecting the pattern, there were two details I knew I had to include:

✨ A structured front waistband – I decided to add interfacing here because it gives the top more shape and polish, and helps it sit beautifully at the waist.
✨ A hidden elastic insert at the neck – This tiny feature makes a big difference in comfort. It allows the neckline to move with you so it feels easy and effortless to wear.

Little things like these matter to me — they’re what take a simple top and make it something you’ll want to reach for again and again.

What’s Inside the Pattern

When you download Charlotte, you’re not just getting another PDF. You’re getting everything I’ve put into making this design accessible and enjoyable for you:

A 26-page illustrated booklet with clear instructions (because confidence is everything when you’re sewing).
Pattern files in A4, Letter, and A0 so you can choose what works best for you.
A size range from UK 4–24 / EU 32–52 / US 0–20 / AU 4–24.
A little gift from me to you: a free scrunchie pattern and a sew-along video. I couldn’t resist adding a bonus project — I love the idea of creating a matching set from the same fabric.

Fabric-wise, Charlotte only needs about 1 yard (0.95 m). I love it in soft, drapey fabrics like viscose or crepe, but I also can’t wait to see it made up in crisp cottons or linen for a more structured look.

Why I Love It

I wanted Charlotte to be approachable but never boring. It’s beginner-friendly to sew, but it doesn’t look beginner at all. To me, that’s the magic: it’s simple enough for a first garment, yet elegant enough to become a staple piece in your handmade wardrobe.

I also designed it with versatility in mind. I imagine Charlotte dressed down with denim for everyday, but also sewn in something silky and worn with wide-leg trousers for evenings out.

A Little Sewing Tip

Take your time with the front cross detail and waistband. Adding that interfacing really gives the top a polished, professional finish — it’s such a small step, but it makes all the difference. And don’t forget to sew the matching scrunchie; it’s a sweet way to use your leftover fabric.

Finally Sharing Charlotte

It feels so good to finally launch this pattern after holding onto it since last year. Waiting gave me time to refine the details and make sure everything about Charlotte felt just right.

Now, I get to pass it on to you — and that’s my favorite part of the process: seeing your versions, in your fabrics, styled your way.

You can get the Charlotte Top sewing pattern here. I hope you’ll love sewing it as much as I loved creating it.