This style is often called a 'pageant top' or 'elastic neck blouse.' How to create this look at home.
1. Materials Needed
Fabric: 1.5 to 2 yards of lightweight woven fabric (Rayon, Cotton Voile, or Linen blend).
Elastic: 1/2-inch wide elastic for the neckline and 1/4-inch for the wrists.
Pattern Paper: You can trace a loose-fitting shirt you already own.
Matching Thread.
Safety Pin: For threading the elastic.
2. The Basic Pattern Pieces
You will need to cut four main pieces. Because this is a "raglan" style (where the sleeve goes all the way to the neck), the pieces look like tall trapezoids:
Front Piece: One large rectangle (on the fold).
Back Piece: One large rectangle (on the fold).
Sleeves (x2): Two rectangles for the voluminous "balloon" sleeves.
Pro Tip: To get that gathered look, make each piece about 1.5 to 2 times wider than your actual body measurement.
3. Step-by-Step Construction
Step A: Sew the Sleeves to the Body
Align the slanted edges of the sleeve pieces with the slanted edges of the front and back pieces. Sew them together. You should now have one giant, circular garment with a large hole at the top.
Step B: Create the Elastic Casing (The Neckline)
Fold the top edge of the neckline down by 1/4 inch and iron it.
Fold it down again by about 1 inch (enough to fit your 1/2-inch elastic).
Sew all the way around, but leave a 2-inch gap open.
Insert the elastic through the gap using a safety pin. Pull it until the top sits comfortably off your shoulders, sew the elastic ends together, and sew the gap shut.
Step C: The Center Detail (The "Tie")
The top in the image has a small slit and a drawstring.
The Slit: Before sewing the neckline casing, cut a 3-inch vertical slit in the center of the front piece. Finish the edges with a narrow hem or facing.
The Tie: You can sew a long tube of fabric to create a matching drawstring, or use a coordinating ribbon. Secure it to the center of the neckline.
Step D: Balloon Sleeves & Hem
Wrists: Create a smaller casing at the bottom of the sleeves and insert 1/4-inch elastic to create the gathered "puff" effect.
Bottom Hem: Finish the bottom of the shirt with a simple double-fold hem.
4. Key Design Features to Match the Image
The Print: Look for a large-scale botanical or sunflower print with vibrant yellows, pinks, and greens.
The Fit: The top in the photo is tucked in. Ensure your pattern is long enough to tuck into high-waisted jeans without popping out when you move.
The Fabric Choice: Use Rayon Chalice if you want that exact flowy, drapey look. If you use stiff cotton, the sleeves will stand out much more sharply.
Are you planning to use a sewing machine, or are you looking for a no-sew alteration method?
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