Twinset — Vogue 1808

Vogue 1808 is a contemporary version of a classic twin set that layers together, works as separates and can be interpreted for all seasons. Make it in any knit jersey or light weight ponte. I used cotton/lycra and cotton/hemp/lycra for the versions on the pattern envelope.

The tunic-top can be made sleeveless or with sleeves and features a lower back panel that peeks out from beneath the asymmetrical back hem on the cardigan. The optional decorative ‘patch’ on the back can be cut entirely from the pattern piece or sewn on top, and can be a knit, a mesh, lace or woven. Both top/tunic and cardigan have pockets. On the blue and white versions I used panel prints as the main pattern piece. On the green version, I used a mesh stitched on top of the knit.

The asymmetrical cardigan closes with one button, has a simple shawl collar cut all in one with the front, and works well worn open as well as closed. You could make the cardi symmetrical by simply cutting either left or right side in a double thickness.

Sewing & Design Tips

• I sewed the entire garment using a walking foot which makes sewing any knit so much easier.
• I can see either or both pieces using a combination of prints, stripes or color blocking, and it would be beautiful in black!
• The pattern uses a topstitched pocket, but you could substitute a ‘floating’ pocket by cutting 2 pocket pieces. Consider using a lighter weight fabric, even a woven lining for a floating pocket.
• Stabilize the pocket opening: Fuse a 1-inch strip of fusible tricot to the pocket opening, extending ½” beyond the opening. Cut the strip in the non-stretch direction to prevent stretching.

Top Neck Finish

• The pattern instructions uses a single thickness self fabric strip that is turned to the inside. The fabric strip/facing is stitched to the neck edge in a 1 to 1 ratio: (no stretching in sewing), then is topstitched.
• You could substitute any favorite neck finish instead.
• DO check the neck size before finishing the neck edge as every knit works differently,.
• You can adjust the front and back independently.
• Sew/finish the right shoulder seam, then pin the left shoulder seam and side seams wrong sides together with the pins along the stitching line parallel to the edge.
• I like a more raised neck for cool weather, and a more open neck for summer.