There are some sewing patterns that quietly become wardrobe heroes, and for me, the Ashton Top is firmly in that category. I honestly think I’ve made it in just about every fabric imaginable, and every time I pull one on I’m reminded why I keep coming back to it. The fit is effortless, it’s wonderfully versatile, and it pairs with almost everything I own. It’s one of those patterns that has well and truly earned its place in my sewing room.
For this latest project as a Minerva Brand Ambassador, I wanted to create another easy-to-wear summer outfit using Minerva’s gorgeous 100% cotton chambray. This beautiful berry-red shade immediately caught my eye. The fabric has that classic chambray texture, but with a wonderfully soft handle and just enough structure to beautifully showcase the design lines of both garments. It’s lightweight, breathable and a pleasure to sew and wear throughout the warmer months.
Rather than making the full Wren Dress by Friday Pattern Company, I decided to give the pattern a little hack. I used just the skirt portion, adding a simple elasticated waistband to create a separate skirt instead. It’s such a straightforward modification, but one that instantly makes the pattern even more versatile. I love sewing separates because they work so much harder in my wardrobe, allowing me to mix and match with pieces I’ve already made.
To complete the outfit, I paired the skirt with—of course—my trusted Ashton Top. Together they almost look like a dress, but I know I’ll get far more wear from them because each piece can be styled independently. The Ashton Top looks just as lovely with jeans, shorts or linen trousers, while the skirt will pair beautifully with fitted T-shirts and lightweight knitwear as the seasons change.
This combination isn’t actually new to me. Last year I made exactly the same co-ord in a gorgeous green, and I genuinely wore it to death. It quickly became one of those outfits that was either being worn or waiting to be washed! That alone convinced me it deserved another outing in a different colour, and this beautiful red chambray felt like the perfect choice.
I love creating garments that I know will become hardworking staples rather than sitting unworn in my wardrobe. This outfit ticks every box—comfortable, stylish, practical and incredibly easy to wear. It’s proof that sometimes the simplest sewing projects become the most loved.
Minerva consistently stocks such beautiful quality fabrics, and this cotton chambray is no exception. Reimagining a favourite pattern combination has given me another outfit that I know I’ll wear on repeat, and if I’m honest, I’m already wondering which colour I’ll make next. After all, I don’t think it’s possible to own too many Ashton Tops!