Olive dress & top pattern

I really love this dress. There were challenging bits but the sewalongs were exceptionally helpful whenever I didn't understand. It is very comfortable, and extremely well finished on the inside. I would say true to size, though if you are cup D or higher to consider the curve option - I didnt have gaping or anything but the bodice was very slightly shorter as a consequence. Will definitely make again :)

I’m really excited about this pattern! I’m going to be making the Olive dress for my daughter in a mustard yellow linen check (photo will follow later), and can’t wait to plan some tops for myself. Megan Nielsen patterns rock!

Decided to try the long sleeve top in a cotton lycra jersey fabric and it worked!! Super careful not to stretch the neckline out and stay stitched to be sure. Also slimmed down the sleeve from elbow to cuff so I could push up comfortably.

Pleased with end result - super comfy top with lovely neckline,

I was very pleased with my finished Olive dress. I found it easy to sew. The neck insert was challenging, but not so much that it made me want to give up. The instructions were easy to understand and well-written. I definitely plan on using this pattern again. I made the size 14 with no adjustments other than shortening the skirt (I’m 5’ 2”). When I make again, I will probably shorten the bodice slightly. I used printed cotton poplin for my make.

Clear booklet instructions, but insert tricky was going to send photo of finished dress but no option to include attachment

I found some of the written instructions missing some information - in particular when sewing the bias binding onto the neck - starts telling you to pin and doesn’t mention stitching or what size seam to stitch with - then goes to finishing off the ends!!! I had to watch the tuition to see how it was meant to be done!

Super simple to print, I went to a print shop and the pattern is perfectly clear and easy to follow. So happy!

A nice and easy design.

Purchased pattern to make a dress for my daughter to attend a friend’s birthday picnic. Thorough and clear instructions and a breeze to make. Thank you for sharing you’re creativity.

I really enjoyed the sewing process. The only issue I had was some excess bulk at the point. Not sure if it was how I interface the V and the insert. This was a wearable muslin from some cheap fabric I had at home. The pattern lends itself well to stripe play too

Looks a fab pattern either as a top or dress. Just need the time to make it.

I am making a top. The directions are very clear and easy to follow.

The olive too is in some ways a very basic pattern, but is slightly challenging to insert the front panel. Perfect for a beginner looking to advance their skills. Pay close attention to the bust measurement and finished measurements, there is not a ton of ease. That is how I like it, but others may like it looser. I’m looking forward to making a version where I insert the panel the opposite way and use contrasting bias tape as a design element on the outside.

I used left over from my stash to toile a top and it turned out beautiful! I will be making the dress and a few more tops in the future. I used a lemon and white wide striped top and didn’t find the neckline too difficult as I watched Megan’s tutorial on her website 😊

I think I chose the wrong fabric - used what was sold as a cotton voile so it was too flimsy for the insert and too sheer for the top.. I attempted to line it, something I've never done before! Despite all my challenges and it only being the second adult dress I've ever made, it worked out ok and was wearable (my sister took it!). Can't wait to use what I learnt to make another, better version

As always the MN patterns are fabulous. There is one tricky step - getting the corners of the v insert on the front bodice - but it’s easy of you use a stable fabric such as a cotton. I used a lightweight tencel viscose blend and had to do a lot unpicking, but the problem was my fabric not the pattern. I’m
surprised that this pattern isn’t more widely known - it’s so versatile, great to hack (try extending the sleeves or replacing with on trend balloon style and/or adjusting the skirt length). I love mine topped with a Jarrah sweater when it’s cool.

I made the Olive top with long sleeves in a washed linen. It’s beautiful. As others have said, the insert can be a little fiddly but I used the online tutorial that walked me through the entire process. I am a beginner sewer and it came out perfect. I wear a smaller size on top than bottom and the pattern was easy to adjust. The top is very pretty and feminine. I already have plans to make more. .