Ashley Riley: May 2026

The Natalie Knotted Tank By Ellie & Mac

With the warmer weather finally here, I thought it was the perfect time to share my latest make, the Natalie Knotted Tank Top. I made mine in this gorgeous ITY fabric from ABC Fabric, and I couldn't be happier with how it turned out. The lightweight drape and soft feel of ITY make it an ideal choice for summer garments, keeping you comfortable while still looking stylish.

This was my first time sewing the Natalie Knotted Tank, and it definitely won't be my last! The pattern was enjoyable to sew and came together surprisingly quickly, making it a fantastic project for a weekend make. I chose the relaxed-fit version with the flattering V-neckline, which gives the top an effortless, casual look that's perfect for everyday wear.

One of the things I love most about this pattern is its versatility. As well as the relaxed-fit V-neck version, the pattern also includes a scooped neckline option and a fitted version, giving you plenty of opportunities to customise your wardrobe. Whether you prefer a more relaxed silhouette or something more figure-hugging, there's an option to suit your style.

The knotted front detail adds a lovely design feature that elevates a simple tank top into something a little more special. It's the kind of top that works equally well paired with jeans, shorts, skirts, or layered under a cardigan when the evenings get cooler.

If you're looking for a quick, versatile sewing project that you'll reach for again and again, I'd definitely recommend giving the Natalie Knotted Tank a try. I already have plans to make several more in different fabrics and colours!

Check out the Natalie Knotted Tank Top Pattern:
https://www.ellieandmac.com/products/natalie-knotted-tank-top-pattern... #AD

The Paige Palazzo & Wide Leg Pants Pattern By Ellie & Mac

Today I'm here to share the beautiful new Paige Palazzo & Wide leg pants. Perfect for flowy woven fabrics, I used a stripe georgette from ABC Fabric. I made the wide leg but if you want wider then go for the palazzo style, 2 waistband heights which you can add elastic or do shirring. You also get 2 pockets options Regular and Deep Pockets. I wanted to make I'm as a set to I paired my Paige pants with the Zara square neck top also a Ellie and Mac pattern. What style will you go for first?

ABC Fabric: Navy Stripe Georgette:
https://abcfabric.co.uk/products/navy-stripe-georgette-per-metre

Check out the Paige Palazzo & Wide Leg Pants Pattern:
https://www.ellieandmac.com/products/paige-palazzo-wide-leg-pants-sewing-pattern... #AD

The Primrose Dress By Gingerrellina London

I had the opportunity to test the amazing new Primrose Dress by Gingerrellina London who I discovered on Instagram and now I’m obsessed! The Primrose comes in four lengths: mini, midi, maxi, and top lengths, from which I chose the top and feel it really suits me.
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It can be styled with natural waist pleats or drop waist pleats. I added natural waist pleats for that timeless, structured look. The pleat detail all around the waist is lovely, it really does create an amazing shape. To finish add bias-binding to the arm and neck and lastly, if your thinking how do you get it on - well there is an invisible zip in the back! I made my version using this gorgeous lightweight cotton from @abcfabricuk, and I love how it turned out.

Fabric from ABCFabric: abcfabric.co.uk/products/red-lightweight-cotton

Pattern can be found here: gingerrellina.com/products/primrose-dress-or-top

The Orchid Dress By Boo and Lu Patterns

Have you heard, its Boo and Lu Patterns birthday! And to celebrate they have a selection of new patterns and loads of discounted patterns. Meet the amazing new Orchid dress, its a woven dress with front princess seams and at the back its buttons up and you have the option on simple or gathered straps.

Orchid has four length options, two necklines, and the choice of inseam pockets. I made the mini length with gathered straps and I went for the low neckline. I used a lightweight red cotton and overlayed it with is lovely black embroidered mesh and just used mesh for the back straps as well fabric from ABC Fabric. I love how it's turned out and perfect for every occasion depending on the fabric you use. Grab yours now while the birthday sale is going on.

This PDF sewing pattern features: