A classic basic with a clean finish

I love Helen’s Closet’s patterns and as soon as I saw her release the Ashton top, I knew I would be adding one to my wardrobe! It’s a very straightforward sew and perfect for beginners, but even experienced sewists might learn a new trick – hello burrito method for an all-in-one facing!

I used what I would refer to as ‘dubious silk’ for my top. It was sold as silk from a mill outlet shop for a bargain price, but a quick burn test was unable to confirm it was in fact pure silk. Anyway, the main thing that drew me to the fabric was that GORGEOUS colour and I think using a plain fabric has made this a really versatile, wearable garment.

As always, Helen’s instructions are flawless and if you haven’t made one of her patterns before I wholeheartedly recommend them. This is the sixth pattern I have tried from her range and I will keep going back for more!

After reading a few reviews, I opted to make the size 2. I think a combination of the fabric and using interfacing that was a little too heavy has resulted in this being a tiny bit tight across my back. However, I think a different fabric with a bias binding finish would probably feel very different. I didn’t want the top to be oversized in this case, but I might make another version in the next size up for a more casual look, maybe in a nice summery linen.

The only alteration I made was to the length – this is the cropped version, but I added 2″ at the lengthen/shorten line to get a hem that sits somewhere between the two versions. It hits just the right spot for me to be worn over jeans and high waisted skirts/culottes.

I will definitely be making another Ashton – it uses very little fabric, so it’s perfect for using up smaller cuts, remnants or large scraps leftover from other projects. My favourite thing about the pattern is the way the facings are sewn – it’s SO much easier than other methods I’ve tried and it gives such a clean finish, especially if you french all your seams! And even if my silk IS dubious, this feels like a very luxurious garment nonetheless.