With the temperatures in the single digits this week, I’ve been craving something to remind me of the sun. Sadly, shorts and swimsuits are a ways away, but I figured a fun top could still be worn under some layers this season. So, I landed on this cropped button-up with a tie front to bring a cute and retro feel to my winter wardrobe. This piece is perfect for bowling away the icy winter weather with a group of friends, or warming up at a cafe with a cup of coffee and a good book.

Fabrics & materials used:

• 2 yards Mood Exclusive Apollo’s Disguise Beige Cotton Voile
• 12 Silver Etches Metal Buttons – 18L
• MDF021 – The Ginkgo Shirt Sewing Pattern (free download below!)

NOTE: This pattern is now available up through a size 22!

All seam allowances are 1/2″ unless otherwise stated.

For this shirt, I started with the collar. It’s on the short side and since the shirt itself is fairly casual, I opted to skip interfacing.

First, I faced the collar, turned it right side out and pressed it. The same went for the collar stand, with the collar placed in between the two layers, like you see below.

Next, I faced the pocket, which ends up looking like a little house shape.

If you’re following along, edge-stitch along the top two, angled sides of your pocket. Fold it down and press so you have a faux fold-over pocket.

Place the pocket on the front panel of your shirt and sew it into place along the bottom three sides.

Next, attach the front panels of your shirt along the shoulder, side seams, and sleeve inseam.

I did mine with French seams, like you can see above and below. Notch the corner where your sleeve meets the side to avoid any weird pulling or bunching of your fabric.

Along the center front of your shirt panels, fold your raw edges inward 1/2″, press, and then fold in another inch and press to form your front button plackets.  Sew on your buttons and buttonholes by following the guides on your pattern pieces.

Attach one layer of your collar stand to the face of your shirt at the neckline and fold the raw edges of the second layer inward, like you see below. Top-stitch around the edge of your collar stand to secure it.

Double fold the edge of your sleeves like you see below and stitch a tab about 3/4″ of an inch from the bottom just along the shoulder seam.

Secure it into place with a button, finish off the bottom of your shirt with a rolled hem, and you’re ready to rock a simultaneously cute and fun look!

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