Tutorial | Wren Lower Neckline

I was lucky to partner with Style Makers Fabrics and create an outfit using their Spring collection. I love seeing the fabric collections they launch. They always curate a collection to inspire your next sewing project, and this Spring collection was no exception.

I don't sew for myself often, but when Style Maker asked me to join as one of their Spring Makers, it was the perfect excuse to make an Easter outfit. I'm always saving ready-to-wear inspiration, and when I saw this linen watercolor floral, it immediately reminded me of an image I had pinned.

With a few adjustments to the Wren pattern, I knew I could achieve something similar. I'm sharing all the details below. And instead of jeans, I decided to make a denim Evelyn skirt. I love how it turned out!

The main Wren pattern adjustment was to widen and lower the neckline and to add a ruffle. For the neckline, I lowered the center front 1 1/4" (3 cm), widened the neck 3/4" (2 cm), and then lowered the center back by 1/4" (0.6 cm). I also omitted the waist darts for my version.

Next, draft new facings that match the new neckline shape. The facing is 1 7/8" (4.75 cm) wide. The center front of the facing extends 1/8" (0.3 cm) past the center front.

If you want to add the neckline ruffle, the first step is to measure the sewline length at the neckline. The seam allowance included is 3/8" (1 cm).

To draft the ruffle, draw a rectangle that is 3 1/4" (8.25 cm) wide and two times the length of the neckline (one front and one back). 

Cut two of the rectangles and sew the short ends together to create one long strip, twice the length of the full neckline.

Then fold the ruffle, right sides together, and sew the short ends. Gather along the cut edge to create the ruffle fullness.

Once gathered, pin it to the bodice. Sew the ruffle to the bodice at 1/4" (0.6 cm). Start at the first notch and continue around the neckline to the other side. Then, proceed to sew the Wren as instructed in the tutorial to continue to attach the facing. 

Your final ruffle neckline will look like this. I made sure to understitch the facing and steamed and pressed the ruffle neckline to help it lie flat. I also added a few hand tacks. 

To create the sleeve, I used the upper part of the long sleeve. I straightened out the hem and created a 1 3/4" (4.5 cm) fold-back hem.

When hemming, I sewed two rows to create a channel to insert 3/8" (1 cm) elastic. 

I made the Evelyn skirt in the Mini length with no adjustments. 

I am really happy with how my final look turned out. It has a similar vibe to the original inspiration, and it's perfect for Spring.

Be sure to tag @chalkandnotch if you try out this Wren hack. I would love to see it!
XO, Gabriela