Statement-making square necklines are super popular at the moment and we've been eyeing up a few hacks of the Megan Nielsen Rowan Bodysuit pattern over on Instagram! We particularly like this story tutorial from Isabella which you can check out here. Read on for our full pattern review, hack instructions and photos, very kindly modelled by Ella from our HQ team.
Pattern Review
Megan Nielsen Rowan Bodysuit and Tee
We used variation C (long sleeve tee with turtle neck)from the Megan Nielsen Rowan Bodysuit and Tee pattern, omitting the turtle neck to draft our own square neck shape (shown below!). We made a size 10 for Ella, sizing up a little to allow for more room as this pattern calls for fabric with at least 40% stretch, and we chose to use our ZQ Premium Merino that has approximately 10% (natural mechanical) stretch.
We wanted a snug fit so the shaping of the neck sat nice and flat without being too tight and we think we nailed this fit for Ella! We'd recommend checking out both Body Measurements and the Finished Garment Measurements while considering the stretch percentage of your fabric when picking your size to ensure an ideal fit.
We followed the tutorial Isabella Serrano (@whatbellamade) created and saved as a highlight on her Instagram page. Her instructions were clear, quick, and easy to follow for reshaping the neckline. We've done a small breakdown of the steps below too, follow along if you'd like to give it a try!
1. From the point of where the neck meets the shoulder, measure down 20cm parallel to the grainline of the pattern.
3. Connect this point up to the neck/shoulder point, making a slightly diagonal line (as shown below). Now cut along your perpendicular and diagonal line for your new neck shape and your new neck shape is complete, too easy!
Cutting and Sewing
For a tidy finish, enclosing all your seams so there is no visible stitching around your neckline, you'll need to cut 2 Front pieces, 2 Back pieces and x1 pair of sleeves.
We followed Isabella's helpful video tutorial for our sewing construction too! It's a great visual guide that breaks down each step into easy bite sized steps, check it out here.
Fabric Recommendations
Olive ZQ Premium Merino
We love how comfortable and warm this top is in our ZQ Premium Merino, while adding a touch of glamour to any winter wardrobe. You'll be reaching for this top for dinner parties, date nights or weekend brunching!
We've got a huge amount of merino and knit jersey fabrics to chose from in stores and online! How amazing would a Liberty Jersey print look, or a super-cute stripe?!
Have a look at some of our fabric suggestions above for inspiration, from the top is: Vintage Blush ZQ Premium Merino, Liberty Argyll Swim - Felix Raison / B, Steel Blue ZQ Premium Merino, Black Mini Polka Dot Print Jersey & Mulberry ZQ Premium Merino.
We loved this easy adaption of an essential item, but with an elegant statement twist! If you decide to give it a go, share yours with us using #SquareNeckHack, #TheFabricStore and tagging @wearethefabricstore so we can see your creations!