Dear readers,
After spending the first part of the year working intensely on the Julia Jeans, with its many pattern pieces, detailed construction, and all the topstitching, I was ready for a little sewing (and patternmaking) pick-me-up. Something simple, quick, and satisfying. A pattern that you can cut and sew in under an hour, but still delivers the kind of fit and details that make you feel polished when you wear it.
That’s exactly how the Kate Tee came to life. I wanted a relaxed knit tee with clean lines, subtle shaping, and elevated details. The kind of easy wardrobe staple that I kept reaching for to pair with my own Julia samples. Now, I’m so excited to share it with you.
Design Details
The Kate Tee is a relaxed fit knit top with subtle waist shaping and a flattering almond-shaped neckline finished with a neckband. The rounded shoulder seams flow into cut-on sleeves, and the short sleeves are finished with wide sleeve bands. The length hits just below the high hip, making it easy to tuck or wear loose depending on your outfit.
While it’s a simple and approachable project, you’ll still end up with a garment that feels elevated and refined, a true workhorse piece in your wardrobe.
The Fit & Size Ranges
The Kate Tee is available in two size ranges: 34–46 and 46–60. Both size ranges are drafted for a height of 5'5" (1m65), but they are also drafted for different cup sizes.
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Sizes 34–46 are drafted for a B/C cup.
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Sizes 46–60 are drafted for a DD cup.
I’m wearing the blue and rust versions in size 34. Lilli is wearing the white sample in size 52 with no modifications. As always, you can refer to the finished garment measurements to choose the right fit for your preferences.
Fabric Suggestions
The Kate Tee is designed for lightweight to medium-weight knit fabrics with drape and a little stretch. The cover samples were sewn in linen jersey and viscose jersey. I'm an absolute lover of linen jersey, I just love the way it feels and drape.
For this pattern, I recommend linen jersey, slub knits, lightweight viscose or rayon jerseys for a fluid, relaxed silhouette. Fabrics with a bit more structure like cotton jersey and interlock knits will give the tee a slightly more boxy feel.
The Kate Tee is a great project when you want to get back to your machine for an instant reward. After working on more involved projects, I love having patterns like this on hand to reset and enjoy the simple pleasure of sewing.
Whether you're pairing it with your Julia Jeans or adding it to your collection of elevated basics, I hope the Kate Tee brings you as much satisfaction in making it as it did for me while designing it.
To celebrate the launch, the Kate Tee is 25% off for one week only, no code needed! And since it pairs perfectly with the Julia Jeans, the jeans pattern is also on sale this week.
Happy sewing!