Made By A Fabricista: Pattern Emporium’s Lyrical Top Featuring Fabric Mart Fabrics

Sewn in a lightweight rayon challis, this top combines style, comfort, and fluidity.

There’s one thing I love in a summer sew: effortless drape—and the Lyrical Top by Pattern Emporium delivered just that. This pattern is a new release, and when I spotted this dreamy rayon challis from Fabric Mart Fabrics, I knew it was the perfect pairing. Lightweight, breathable, and with just the right amount of movement, the fabric really brought the pattern to life.

Today, I’m sharing all the details—from fabric choice and construction to styling and fit—plus a few thoughts on why this top might just become a repeat sew.

Pattern Overview: The Lyrical Top by Pattern Emporium

The Lyrical Top is a relaxed-fit design with bloused sleeves and a gently flared frill cuff. It comes with three sleeve lengths and two neckline variations. I chose the tie-neck view, but there’s also a collar option for a slightly different vibe.

I’ve been looking to add more stylish tops to my wardrobe this year, and I couldn’t wait to start with this one. I love the soft drape and feminine detail without it being too fussy. This top pairs beautifully with slacks for work or a nice dinner, and it works just as well with jeans for a more casual, laid-back look.

Fabric Spotlight: Rayon Challis from Fabric Mart Fabrics

I knew a drapey rayon challis would be ideal for this pattern, and Fabric Mart Fabrics has a wide selection to choose from. I picked the Bubblegum Pink/Salmon Pink/Clover Green/Multi 100% Rayon Floral Print Challis. The colors coordinate beautifully with several pieces I already own, and when the fabric arrived—I was not disappointed!

It has a soft hand, washed and dried beautifully, and behaved wonderfully throughout the sewing process. The 54" width made it easy to fit all the pattern pieces, including the voluminous sleeves. This rayon challis truly brought the Lyrical Top to life.

Sewing Experience

Sewing this top was fun and beginner-friendly. The instructions include helpful photos and thoughtful construction tips. One of the first steps is assembling the beautiful feature sleeve. This was my first time making my own bias tape for the elastic casing, and I found the process easy thanks to the pattern’s guidance. I love how polished it looks in the final garment!

Another standout feature is the clever button placket design—it's all one piece! With a bit of interfacing, folding, and topstitching, you get a lovely clean finish. If you’re not comfortable making buttonholes, don’t worry—the pattern includes instructions for a faux button placket, and there’s enough ease in the top to simply pull it on.

I initially cut and sewed a size 12 based on the size chart, but after trying it on, I realized I could go down a size.

My final version is a straight size 10 with mid-length sleeves, and I’m really happy with the fit. I especially love that I can push the sleeves up for a blousy, relaxed look.

Styling & Final Thoughts

I plan to wear this top tucked into slacks with the bow tied for dressier occasions, or half-tucked into jeans for a casual weekend vibe. This pattern is definitely going into my regular rotation—it comes together in a solid afternoon and is a great balance of comfort and style.

Fabric Mart Fabrics offers an incredible selection of rayon challis and other high-quality garment sewing fabrics—perfect for flowy tops like the Lyrical Top. Take a look at their current collection—you might find the perfect fabric for your next project! If you’ve sewn with Fabric Mart fabrics before, I’d love to hear what you made—leave a comment below and share your favorites.

CARMEN | @carmensalome

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