When Fibre Mood asked if I would make the Zinnia Top as part of their Edition 26 release, I knew it would be the perfect top for the upcoming holiday season.
The Zinnia is a simple pattern with minimalist lines. It's simplicity in design means that it offers incredible versatile styling that you can effortlessly adapt to any occasion.
Zinnia can be paired with a denim maxi skirt or jeans for a luncheon or casual dinner; or wear it with a satin skirt and fancy accessories and you have an effortlessly chic outfit for holiday dinners and celebrations. Zinnia truly offers versatilty and chic design.
The pattern has two main pieces; a front piece cut on the fold and two back pieces joined together with a center seam. The round neckline is neatly finished with a biasbinding facing- and the low elegant back opening is finished with a simple facing. The back closure is finished with a loop and button or it you can add ties to finish it with a bow. Both choices will add elegance touches to your top. I choose to use a vintage square button for my Zinna closure, I liked how the shape of the button echoed the design elements in the fabric. This is a great pattern for beginning sewers or for a quick sew if you are feeling rushed but still want a new top for the holiday season.
Let's talk specifics about this elegant fabric from Polytex Stoffen. This is a woven, satin jacquard that features a very subtle floral pattern created by small pixels of matte and shiny fabric. The pattern reminds me of a modern take on a vintage lace. I love how the different finishes of the fabric catch the light adding more intricate detail as you move.
This fabric is sustainably sourced according to OEKO-TEX and is made of 100% viscose. It drapes beautifully and feels smooth and elegant to the touch. I chose the Tapestry Blue for my Zinnia, it is also available in black.
Zinnia's versatility doesn't stop with its styling options. Zinnia offers even more choices depending on the fabric you choose. Sew the Zinnia up in a cotton flannel and layer it for a cozy fall look or choose a printed cotton/viscose blend. As a Fibre Mood ambassador it was my pleasure to have Byrd @yogabyrdsews as my "Sewing Buddy" for this release. We each sewed the Zinnia in the fabric of our choice and decided how we could style it. Having a sewing buddy is such a fun was to stay connected to our sewing community. Byrd’s Zinnia is made with a cotton/viscose bird print also from Polytex Stoffen. Both of our outfits are styled with the Fibre Mood Marah. Head to Byrd's Instagram to see more great makes.
The Zinnia pattern is so versatile it can be sewn in either woven or knit fabrics. Solid colours or prints both work equally well. Heavier fabrics like corduroy, denim or even leather will give you added texture and style and produce a statement piece to add to your wardrobe. The Zinnia is designed to have a 3/4 length sleeve with an elasticized cuff. I added a couple of inches to the length of my sleeve so that I could wear it to the wrist. I wanted to get the full length effect of the beautiful dolman sleeve. This kind of sleeve gives the Zinna an elegant flow and it gives you the freedom of movement.
I love my Zinnia and I enjoyed sewing it. In order to feature the fabric as much as possible I sized up to an extra large cut through the neckline and shoulders for a more oversized look. I graded down to a size medium through the waist and hips. If I were to make the Zinna again I would make a size large, reducing the size of the neckline.
I highly recommend trying the Zinnia pattern. I love the variety in styling options that it offers and I think it would be a fantastic addition to any sewists wardrobe for any season.
After all... There is Sew Much To Design.
Happy Holiday Sewing,
Lou Sheffer