The Quilla Top is a classic top for quintessential summer styling. It is the perfect blend of an ultra-feminine top with versatility and true comfort.
Quilla is not the easiest pattern you will sew, parts of its construction can be a bit fiddly, but the effort is well worth the end product. The pattern itself only has 5 pieces, the front and back bodice, front and back facings and a side panel. The challenging part of the sewing comes with the construction of the all in one facing. The instructions are well written and the illstrations clearly outline the steps that need to be taken in order to piece the facing together and stitch it to the front and back bodice. Paying attention to the illustrations and making note of the right side and wrong side colour coding will definitely help you to keep the steps clear. I found that watching the sew along video that is available on the Fibre Mood website so that you can see how the facing is attached to the bodice really helps.
My Quilla is shown here with the Freja Pants, also from Fibre Mood. You can read all about this great pants pattern here. The Cleo Bag pattern details can be found here.
Once you have your facings attached to the bodice the next sections sew together quite quickly. The side panels have an ingenious construction that gathers at the top with elastic. This elastic adds interest to the top and it helps to create a tailored, but relaxed fit.
Quilla is designed to be worn as a shorter style. It is perfect for wearing with higher waisted pants or a skirt. The length of the top can be easily adjusted if you want it to hit at hip length, or even lengthened further for a baby doll length dress. It is a roomier fit and an A-line cut. The front and back both have a high neckline that lies flat across the chest. This is a flattering silhouette combined with the A-Line cut of the top.
Quilla is suited to many woven fabrics. I used a lovely linen and viscose OEKO-Tex fabric from Polytex Stoffen in the Netherlands. It washed up beautifully and after a quick press it was very easy to cut out and to sew. The vertical stripes are perfect for the design of this top. The fabric blend makes it less prone to creasing and it would be suitable for tops, skirt, pants of a jackets. The Quilla pattern would be work wonderfully with a viscose, light weight chambray, double guaze or cotton poplin. A stiffer fabric will have less drape but it will be easier to work with, especially as you construct the facing.
I dressed my Quilla up by styling it with a pair of Freja wool pants. The drape of both patterns gives you a classic soft summer tailoring that is perfect for business or a luncheon. Dressed down, and casually styled with a pair of cut of jeans, Quilla is perfect for running errands or a back yard BBQ.
Quintessential Quilla is the perfect addition to your summer wardrobe. The styling options are endless and once you are familiar with the facing construction you will be making a few to keep you cool and stylish this summer.
After all.... There is Sew Much To Design
Happy Quilla Sewing,
Lou Sheffer