All Love Notions Sewing Patterns are digital downloads, you may print them at home or send to a copy shop. A physical pattern will not be mailed to you.
The Forte top and dress is a great transitional piece to add to your wardrobe. Included are four body styles, two dresses and several sleeve options to mix and match. Mix and match the sleeve flounces or leave them off entirely. The Forte is meant for light to medium weight knits. Views B & D can even be made as dresses!
A- gathered skirt peplum style with scoop neck
B- waterfall skirt with v-neck
C- classic tee with scoop neck
D- gathered inverted with v-neck
Forte Top and Dress Features:
Meant for knit fabrics
4 Top views
2 Dress views
6 Sleeve options: short with flounce, bell, gathered, plain short, plain mid-length, plain long
Print at home for US letter & A4 paper, trimless format with layers
Large format file for copy shop printing. This file will print on six A0 (33″ x 46″) size sheets. Be sure to instruct your printer to print actual size in black and white on their cheapest paper. We recommend PDFPlotting for printing the large format files.
A projector file is also included for those using projector technology.
The Forte Top & Dress instant downloadable pdf pattern contains:
The Forte Top & Dress contains pattern pieces for four top styles, two dress styles (standard bust & full bust) and 6 sleeve styles.
Included is a print chart to only print the pages you need for your style choice.
In addition to the print-at-home file, an A0-sized large format file for copy shop printing is also included.
A projector file is also included for those using projector technology to cut their fabric
1 page to customize the fit.
2 pages of inspiration photos from pattern testers.
Cutting guide.
7 pages of bright and clear step by step illustrations.
Optimized for most tablets with links to each part of the pattern. Print only the pattern pieces and use a tablet or computer to read the instructions to save on ink and paper!
This pattern has the ability to print just desired size(s) and in addition features trimless pattern assembly! Open the PDF in Adobe, select the layer thumbnail on the left hand menu and then select the size(s) to print. See this tutorial for more information.
Designed for both letter and A4 paper printing.
Because we value work at home business, feel free to use this pattern in your home sewing businesses.
Size chart & Fabric Requirements
Line Drawings
ERRATA
11/8/19: Updated file with sizes 4X & 5X
9/23/2020: Fixed mislabeled bodice and side seams view B top.
1/27/23: updated projector file to be a little more user friendly
36 reviews for Forte Top & Dress
Rated 5 out of 5
Stacey Gambetti (verified owner)–
I am in LOVE with my Forte tops! They all look different. I have made 2 so far and planning a grey one like your ambassador with the ruffle to the bell sleeve. Absolutely love them.
Rated 5 out of 5
doolittlea (verified owner)–
I really love view D of the Forte, very easy to make. You can easily sew one piece for the top front piece and just one for the bottom, I followed the tips from the Facebook group 🙂
Rated 5 out of 5
lindajermy (verified owner)–
Love this pattern, it’s so versatile. I’m sure I will be using it forever.
Rated 5 out of 5
Paula (verified owner)–
Oh my goodness!
Such a versatile pattern!
I bought this to copy a top I saw at *** which cost way too much! Forte was great for that, but so many more options. I’m having a ball with this pattern!
Rated 5 out of 5
Robin Twerdok (verified owner)–
The stort flounce sleeves are my favorite. So easy to sew up. Great staple.
Rated 5 out of 5
schroeder1987 (verified owner)–
This is one of my favorite patterns. I have used view C multiple times. It is a beautifully draped top in the right fabric. Use a fabric with a little more body and you can get some nice ruffles on the sleeves.
Rated 5 out of 5
Roberta Yochim (verified owner)–
I had so much fun making my first Forte top. I selected view D. I hacked the sleeves to make them 3/4 length exaggerated bishop sleeves with a small edge binding. It is so easy to make this pattern individual and it turned out perfect. Love it!
Rated 5 out of 5
Deborah Mah (verified owner)–
Made my first LN pattern and it was a very enjoyable experience. Sewed View D and it came out perfect. New to sewing and nearly gave up due to frustrations or fit (other pattern companies). I’ve been watching Karina’s videos (Lifting Pins and Needles) to learn more. Her Forte interpretation using knit and woven fabrics sold me. Keep up the good job – inclusive sizing and rigorous testing shows in your offerings. Planning to make more purchases.
Rated 5 out of 5
CJ (verified owner)–
I’ve made Version A without the flounce on the sleeve (fabric shortage). The pattern was great, good directions but I don’t think I chose the correct fabric (although it did meet the stretch requirements). It was very ‘bouncy’ and I probably could have gone down a size. I will use this pattern again.
Rated 5 out of 5
Gaby20ster (verified owner)–
This top is super confy and casual. Easy to sew even though it looks not super easy, The best is the fit!! LN patterns have helped me to develop my sewing skills so much!! completely recommended!
Rated 4 out of 5
SewLynn (verified owner)–
Drag lines from the sleeve seam into the bodice were disappointing, something I’d never experienced in any patterns I’ve used in the past, although I suppose I should have noticed them beforehand on many of the images shown on this page. I’ll make adjustments and give the pattern one more try as I do love the style and it fits well otherwise.
Keira Wood (verified owner)–
So sorry to hear of your struggles with the sleeve. Unfortunately, I am unable to see any images on this page that show draglines. I do hope you’ll give the pattern another try. Be sure to join our Facebook group for fit advice and support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/lovenotionspatternsupport/ ~K
Rated 5 out of 5
Christine (verified owner)–
I did View B top with short sleeves. Although I thought it was going to be complicated, it was a very quick easy sew and MOST flattering on my plus sized body! I want to try all the options!
Rated 5 out of 5
Stephanie Worley (verified owner)–
Love this pattern, made close to half a dozen so far of the View D top, next to make the dress
Rated 5 out of 5
andrea lazar (verified owner)–
I love this pattern ♡♡♡
Sewed 4 times for me and my daughter and it is very easy with the great step by step explanations
Rated 5 out of 5
powejj01 (verified owner)–
I love all the options and having some tops that aren’t just the same thing. Every time I wear one, I get so many random compliments
Rated 5 out of 5
Frances Campbell (verified owner)–
I love the variety of options on this pattern!
I’ve made a few now and they all have different sleeves, necklines or flounces… so many looks from one pattern purchase!
I have to adjust the pattern for my larger bust so that the front seam sits beneath rather than cutting across my chest. Once that’s tweaked this is an easy and satisfying sew!
Rated 5 out of 5
Joanne Creech (verified owner)–
As soon as I saw this one on Feature Friday, I knew I had to have it – I made it in view B and it has been a great addition in short sleeves as it warms up!
Rated 5 out of 5
Kristi (verified owner)–
This is one of my most used patterns from Love Notions! My favorite view is View B. I have numerous tops and dresses in this view. The perfect pattern for beautiful flowy tops and dresses!
Rated 5 out of 5
Kathy Norris (verified owner)–
I made a wearable muslin for my daughter. It was such an easy sew that I can’t wait to make another one. I will add a few inches to the bodice. She did not like how it fit on the bust area.
Rated 5 out of 5
Kristin Robertson (verified owner)–
I made View D as a top to test the pattern, then made it as a dress. It’s an excellent pattern! Well fitted through the bust and shoulders paired with a cascading skirt that gently glides over your waist and hips. And it sews up quickly!
Rated 5 out of 5
christinemoore38 (verified owner)–
I bought this on a featured friday and sewed up version D that weekend. Love the pattern. Well written. I am looking forward to seeing up some of the other versions soon.
Rated 5 out of 5
J Score (verified owner)–
Very cute pattern with so many options to change the look up! I was very intimidated to sew my own clothes but you have helped me overcome those fears!
Rated 5 out of 5
Pamela White (verified owner)–
I made a version of this top and love it. I have lost weight and now it is too big so I “have” to make a new one. Such a great problem to have.
Rated 5 out of 5
Kathy Garnett (verified owner)–
An easy dress/top to make. I love v-necks and this pattern makes it easy!
Rated 5 out of 5
soaper.yt (verified owner)–
I’ve made two so far… View B, dress and top. Both turned out really nice. My fabric choice for the dress view wasn’t the best, but it’s still wearable. My advice is to not use ponte. It just doesn’t have the drape.
Rated 5 out of 5
danitajc (verified owner)–
This amazing pattern in bamboo Lycra made my year! Comfy, cool, and styling I was so happy I tried making just one of the Forte tops! This year I can’t wait to make more of the designs and add to my closet beautiful blouses that fit my style! I can highly recommend this pattern.
Rated 5 out of 5
Deanne Dexter (verified owner)–
Y’all are So Generous! I love your ” interview” video. I have had only success w each pattern. The Forte is the best value, offering 4 very different looks..I ve sewn multiples.
I send people on Reddit in your direction often, because of the great designs, instructions & mostly personal fit guidance! Happy New Year!
Rated 5 out of 5
Sally Holmes (verified owner)–
Such a versatile pattern, I have only made view B so far and it is a staple in my wardrobe
Rated 4 out of 5
Terri Strong (verified owner)–
I made view B. Maybe it was my fabric choice but it looked like a maternity top on me (and I am waay past the age to be pregnant!). So beware if you are someone like me with a bit of a belly. Hoping the other views are more flattering on me, it looks so good in the photos.
Rated 5 out of 5
lucymarie2907 (verified owner)–
My absolute favourite LN pattern! I lowered the bust seam to sit below my bust and this small modification is so flattering on me. I love this pattern do much and have made several already, with plans for many more!
Rated 5 out of 5
Mary McCoy (verified owner)–
WOW! So many options with this pattern. For my first make I used option D and a Rayon /Lycra knit. Absolutely love the way it turned out.
I think I will try version B next.
Thanks Love Notions for creating such a fun pattern!
Rated 5 out of 5
semarcel (verified owner)–
The Forte is my first knit pattern. I love the directions on how to customize the pattern- it’s so clear and easy to follow. I also appreciate the blog and YouTube support when I needed a bit more. I would recommend this as a great pattern to learn from, particularly for beginners.
Rated 5 out of 5
Sara Seefeldt (verified owner)–
A quick sew with so many options and a flattering fit. I am not one to repeat patterns but Love notions patterns are the exception, especially this one! It’s a staple in my closet. The simplicity of a t-shirt with added fun flair of ruffles is perfect as a stay at home mom when I want to be comfortable but not frumpy. Highly recommend!
Rated 5 out of 5
Donna Louch (verified owner)–
This one is great although I have only made version D. I also changed the sleeves and modified the neckline a bit (wanted a higher neck). I need to try another version next.
Rated 5 out of 5
Stephanie Worley (verified owner)–
I have made quite a few of view D; it is my fave and I love the way it sews, the way it wears, and its look. I will be making more, of that there is no doubt
Rated 5 out of 5
Zuleika Lambe (verified owner)–
I haven’t sewn clothing with knit fabric for over 20 years, so I made view C to ease myself into it. It was so easy to make that I made two tops this afternoon! I turned them into short sleeves as I realised I didn’t care for the flounce detail and decided to chop the sleeve off. I also lengthened it 2 inches which makes it suitable for wearing with jeans. I’ll make another tomorrow which I’ll lengthen about 6 inches to wear with leggings and will also make view B. Awesome pattern!
Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.
Stacey Gambetti (verified owner) –
I am in LOVE with my Forte tops! They all look different. I have made 2 so far and planning a grey one like your ambassador with the ruffle to the bell sleeve. Absolutely love them.
doolittlea (verified owner) –
I really love view D of the Forte, very easy to make. You can easily sew one piece for the top front piece and just one for the bottom, I followed the tips from the Facebook group 🙂
lindajermy (verified owner) –
Love this pattern, it’s so versatile. I’m sure I will be using it forever.
Paula (verified owner) –
Oh my goodness!
Such a versatile pattern!
I bought this to copy a top I saw at *** which cost way too much! Forte was great for that, but so many more options. I’m having a ball with this pattern!
Robin Twerdok (verified owner) –
The stort flounce sleeves are my favorite. So easy to sew up. Great staple.
schroeder1987 (verified owner) –
This is one of my favorite patterns. I have used view C multiple times. It is a beautifully draped top in the right fabric. Use a fabric with a little more body and you can get some nice ruffles on the sleeves.
Roberta Yochim (verified owner) –
I had so much fun making my first Forte top. I selected view D. I hacked the sleeves to make them 3/4 length exaggerated bishop sleeves with a small edge binding. It is so easy to make this pattern individual and it turned out perfect. Love it!
Deborah Mah (verified owner) –
Made my first LN pattern and it was a very enjoyable experience. Sewed View D and it came out perfect. New to sewing and nearly gave up due to frustrations or fit (other pattern companies). I’ve been watching Karina’s videos (Lifting Pins and Needles) to learn more. Her Forte interpretation using knit and woven fabrics sold me. Keep up the good job – inclusive sizing and rigorous testing shows in your offerings. Planning to make more purchases.
CJ (verified owner) –
I’ve made Version A without the flounce on the sleeve (fabric shortage). The pattern was great, good directions but I don’t think I chose the correct fabric (although it did meet the stretch requirements). It was very ‘bouncy’ and I probably could have gone down a size. I will use this pattern again.
Gaby20ster (verified owner) –
This top is super confy and casual. Easy to sew even though it looks not super easy, The best is the fit!! LN patterns have helped me to develop my sewing skills so much!! completely recommended!
SewLynn (verified owner) –
Drag lines from the sleeve seam into the bodice were disappointing, something I’d never experienced in any patterns I’ve used in the past, although I suppose I should have noticed them beforehand on many of the images shown on this page. I’ll make adjustments and give the pattern one more try as I do love the style and it fits well otherwise.
Keira Wood (verified owner) –
So sorry to hear of your struggles with the sleeve. Unfortunately, I am unable to see any images on this page that show draglines. I do hope you’ll give the pattern another try. Be sure to join our Facebook group for fit advice and support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/lovenotionspatternsupport/ ~K
Christine (verified owner) –
I did View B top with short sleeves. Although I thought it was going to be complicated, it was a very quick easy sew and MOST flattering on my plus sized body! I want to try all the options!
Stephanie Worley (verified owner) –
Love this pattern, made close to half a dozen so far of the View D top, next to make the dress
andrea lazar (verified owner) –
I love this pattern ♡♡♡
Sewed 4 times for me and my daughter and it is very easy with the great step by step explanations
powejj01 (verified owner) –
I love all the options and having some tops that aren’t just the same thing. Every time I wear one, I get so many random compliments
Frances Campbell (verified owner) –
I love the variety of options on this pattern!
I’ve made a few now and they all have different sleeves, necklines or flounces… so many looks from one pattern purchase!
I have to adjust the pattern for my larger bust so that the front seam sits beneath rather than cutting across my chest. Once that’s tweaked this is an easy and satisfying sew!
Joanne Creech (verified owner) –
As soon as I saw this one on Feature Friday, I knew I had to have it – I made it in view B and it has been a great addition in short sleeves as it warms up!
Kristi (verified owner) –
This is one of my most used patterns from Love Notions! My favorite view is View B. I have numerous tops and dresses in this view. The perfect pattern for beautiful flowy tops and dresses!
Kathy Norris (verified owner) –
I made a wearable muslin for my daughter. It was such an easy sew that I can’t wait to make another one. I will add a few inches to the bodice. She did not like how it fit on the bust area.
Kristin Robertson (verified owner) –
I made View D as a top to test the pattern, then made it as a dress. It’s an excellent pattern! Well fitted through the bust and shoulders paired with a cascading skirt that gently glides over your waist and hips. And it sews up quickly!
christinemoore38 (verified owner) –
I bought this on a featured friday and sewed up version D that weekend. Love the pattern. Well written. I am looking forward to seeing up some of the other versions soon.
J Score (verified owner) –
Very cute pattern with so many options to change the look up! I was very intimidated to sew my own clothes but you have helped me overcome those fears!
Pamela White (verified owner) –
I made a version of this top and love it. I have lost weight and now it is too big so I “have” to make a new one. Such a great problem to have.
Kathy Garnett (verified owner) –
An easy dress/top to make. I love v-necks and this pattern makes it easy!
soaper.yt (verified owner) –
I’ve made two so far… View B, dress and top. Both turned out really nice. My fabric choice for the dress view wasn’t the best, but it’s still wearable. My advice is to not use ponte. It just doesn’t have the drape.
danitajc (verified owner) –
This amazing pattern in bamboo Lycra made my year! Comfy, cool, and styling I was so happy I tried making just one of the Forte tops! This year I can’t wait to make more of the designs and add to my closet beautiful blouses that fit my style! I can highly recommend this pattern.
Deanne Dexter (verified owner) –
Y’all are So Generous! I love your ” interview” video. I have had only success w each pattern. The Forte is the best value, offering 4 very different looks..I ve sewn multiples.
I send people on Reddit in your direction often, because of the great designs, instructions & mostly personal fit guidance! Happy New Year!
Sally Holmes (verified owner) –
Such a versatile pattern, I have only made view B so far and it is a staple in my wardrobe
Terri Strong (verified owner) –
I made view B. Maybe it was my fabric choice but it looked like a maternity top on me (and I am waay past the age to be pregnant!). So beware if you are someone like me with a bit of a belly. Hoping the other views are more flattering on me, it looks so good in the photos.
lucymarie2907 (verified owner) –
My absolute favourite LN pattern! I lowered the bust seam to sit below my bust and this small modification is so flattering on me. I love this pattern do much and have made several already, with plans for many more!
Mary McCoy (verified owner) –
WOW! So many options with this pattern. For my first make I used option D and a Rayon /Lycra knit. Absolutely love the way it turned out.
I think I will try version B next.
Thanks Love Notions for creating such a fun pattern!
semarcel (verified owner) –
The Forte is my first knit pattern. I love the directions on how to customize the pattern- it’s so clear and easy to follow. I also appreciate the blog and YouTube support when I needed a bit more. I would recommend this as a great pattern to learn from, particularly for beginners.
Sara Seefeldt (verified owner) –
A quick sew with so many options and a flattering fit. I am not one to repeat patterns but Love notions patterns are the exception, especially this one! It’s a staple in my closet. The simplicity of a t-shirt with added fun flair of ruffles is perfect as a stay at home mom when I want to be comfortable but not frumpy. Highly recommend!
Donna Louch (verified owner) –
This one is great although I have only made version D. I also changed the sleeves and modified the neckline a bit (wanted a higher neck). I need to try another version next.
Stephanie Worley (verified owner) –
I have made quite a few of view D; it is my fave and I love the way it sews, the way it wears, and its look. I will be making more, of that there is no doubt
Zuleika Lambe (verified owner) –
I haven’t sewn clothing with knit fabric for over 20 years, so I made view C to ease myself into it. It was so easy to make that I made two tops this afternoon! I turned them into short sleeves as I realised I didn’t care for the flounce detail and decided to chop the sleeve off. I also lengthened it 2 inches which makes it suitable for wearing with jeans. I’ll make another tomorrow which I’ll lengthen about 6 inches to wear with leggings and will also make view B. Awesome pattern!