If you've ever seen a crochet top with a fitted waist, flowing lace bust, and cold shoulder cutouts and thought "that's way beyond me," I want you to meet the Pearl Lace Cold Shoulder Top. Because it's easier than it looks. A lot easier.
It starts with a ribbed waist
The waist is worked sideways in double crochet through the back loop only. That one simple technique, back loop only, is what creates those beautiful raised ribs that stretch and cinch at the waist. It's repetitive, it's meditative, and once you get into the rhythm you won't want to stop.
You work rows until the panel wraps snugly around your waist. No counting rounds, no complicated shaping. Just rows until it fits.
Then comes the lace
Once the waist is done you pick up stitches along the edge and switch to a lace stitch, and this is where the top really comes to life. The combination of single crochets, double crochets and chain stitches creates an open, airy fabric that drapes beautifully and looks far more complicated than it is. The increases built into the stitch pattern are what create that oversized, flowy bust that relaxes around your chest.
It might look a little bunched up while you're working it. That's exactly what's supposed to happen. Once it's on your body, it drapes and flows perfectly.
The cold shoulder detail
Two panels, front and back, worked exactly the same way. When you seam them together you leave a small opening at each shoulder, and that gap is what creates the cold shoulder cutout. It's such a simple construction decision but it makes the whole top look intentional and elevated.
The waist seam is what creates the sleeve opening. By only seaming the waist and leaving the lace bust open, your arms slip through naturally and the batwing shape falls into place.
Your next summer project
Made in Cotton Kings Cone 500 8/4 in Light Grey, this top is lightweight and breathable. Perfect for warmer days. Wear it over a camisole, with high-waisted trousers, or throw it over a swimsuit for a beach cover up that actually looks good.
The lace keeps it airy enough for summer while the ribbed waist gives it enough structure to wear on its own. It's the kind of piece you'll reach for again and again.
The full written pattern and video tutorial are available in my shop.
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See the pattern pageĀ for all available information for this design, likeĀ tutorial, photos, materials list, gauge, size guide, finished measurements, stitch key, specialty stitches, notes, FAQs and reviews.
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