INTRODUCING THE NIKKO TOP AND DRESS SEWING PATTERN





 

 

Note: As of January 2021, the Nikko a new size range (14-30) of the Nikko has been added to the shop. Read about that here.

I am so excited to introduce the newest True Bias sewing pattern, the Nikko Top and Dress. The Nikko is a mockneck knit pattern with four views. Views A and B are tops with a fitted silhouette that is perfect paired with high waisted pants (like the Landers) and skirts. Views B and C are ankle length dresses with a straighter fit through the waist and hips and side slits from the hem to the knee.

I have found the my Nikko tops have been my go to with winter layering. With lots of coverage but a slimmer fit, they are perfect under chunky cardigans and vests or tighter fitting jackets. It's my winter tshirt. View A is sleeveless. The cut is similar to a racerback, but with just enough coverage to wear a regular bra. This view is especially great for transitional weather. View B is a long sleeved mock turtleneck. This is probably my most worn of all of my Nikkos. A simple black or striped long sleeved Nikko is perfect for almost any occasion. I love it with jeans for everyday, or tucked into a fitted short skirt with thick tights for something a bit more dressed up.
I love to wear my dress length Nikko with ankle booties and my leather jacket, although it's also great with a maxi cardigan and a statement necklace. It fits with some ease in the waist and hips for some added comfort. It is not a body con dress. It's flattering while still being easy to wear and move in.
The Nikko is an advanced beginner pattern. It's super quick to make (think a tshirt without the difficult neckline) with the hardest part being hemming the knits. I suggest using some kind of knit hem tape such as HeatnBond soft stretch to make it easier, but we will go over that more during the sewalong. Fabrics for this pattern are knits with about 75% stretch. If you use fabric with less stretch than this you will have a hard time getting it over your head (I know from experience). I have found that my favorite fabric to use for the top is a bamboo knit. For the dress length I like a fabric that's a bit less clingy so a rib knit is perfect for this. It has tons of stretch and recovery with the added thickness and coverage that the ribbing brings.
The Nikko Top and Dress is being released today as both a pdf and a paper pattern. You can find them both in my shop. I am also releasing the Ogden cami as a paper pattern today which you can find here. I will be back during the next couple of weeks with ready-to-wear inspiration and also fabric recommendations. The official sewalong will begin in two weeks on Monday Feb. 19th. I hope you love it as much as I do.