Ladies La Bella Donna Top & Tunic

77 customer reviews

$12.50

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 beautiful woman”, that’s what you’ll feel like when wearing this figure flattering and quick sew top. Choose from shirt or tunic length, short, 3/4 or long sleeve, cowl or hoodie. Also included is an optional hem band for the shirt view. This is the perfect transitional piece for your me-made wardrobe. Made with knit fabrics, this gorgeous top is quick and easy to sew and wear!

La Bella Donna Features:

  • Meant for knit fabrics
  • Shirt length with shirt tail hem
  • Shirt length with banded hem
  • Tunic length with pocket option
  • Full bust option for both views
  • 3 sleeve options: short, 3/4 & long cuffed
  • Hood & cowl options

Sizes: XS-5X (See Size Charts here)

Skill Level: Beginner

Pattern Formats Included:

  • Print at home for US letter & A4 paper, trimless format with layers
  • Large format file for copy shop printing. This file will print on two 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

Be sure to check out the coordinating girls LBD. Purchase both versions at regular price and get an additional discount.

Read more about this pattern on our blog:

basic long-sleeve LBD

Description

The La Bella Donna pdf instant downloadable pattern contains:

  • The La Bella Donna pdf sewing pattern contains 2 styles: tunic & shirt, as well as optional cowl, hood, hem band and pockets.
  • 2 pages of inspiration photos from pattern testers
  • Cutting guide
  • Clear step by step color illustrations.
  • 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 included for those using projector technology
  • 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.

La Bella Donna Blogs

 

ease
La Bella Donna Dolman

What sewists need to know about “Ease”

Read this post to learn about "ease" when it comes to sewing.
machine needles
Feature Friday

Machine Needles 101: Let’s get to the Point

Learn all about sewing machine needles and how to get the most as you sew.
basic long-sleeve LBD
La Bella Donna Dolman

Basic Long-Sleeve Hack for La Bella Donna

Learn how to add a basic long-sleeve hack to the La Bella Donna. Today's guest…
dolman dress la bella donna
Feature Friday

Dolman Dress Hacks plus Sleeve Flounces

LA BELLA DONNA: DOLMAN DRESS HACK Looking for a dolman dress hack? Everyone needs a…

More Resources for La Bella Donna Dolman

 

Size Chart & Fabric Requirements

Line Drawing

ERRATA

Files updated 7/23/2020 to update all sizes to current Love Notions sizing which now also includes 4X & 5X.

77 reviews for Ladies La Bella Donna Top & Tunic

  1. Keri

    I wish I could put into words how much I love this pattern. Because there are so many options, I have made multiples to carry me thru summer/fall and into winter. Cowl neck, hood, crew neck, pockets (!!), band or curved hem, short or long sleeves. All in one. I have made 8 so far and have changed up my fabric choices as well. I have used a rayon blend (my fav), cotton jersey, hacci sweater and french terry. I love that I can go from dressy to casual just by fabric choice. Tami knocked this one out of the park for sure!

  2. linestrada (verified owner)

    When this pattern was first released I thought I already have 3 other dolman patterns why do I need another but after seeing all the options available and its a slim fit dolman unlike the other ones I have. Anyway after making like 3 of these I’m in love. Such an easy sew ! Thanks for another fantastic pattern.

  3. Joyce (verified owner)

    I just found your site and love your patterns! Bought 1 and now I want several more!

    Thank you for creating these beautiful patterns!

    Joyce Casey

  4. nitelily3 (verified owner)

    This is a very typical love notions pattern – full of options and a beautiful fit! You really cannot ask for more!

  5. Sue (verified owner)

    Just Love these patterns ! They really do work ! I don’t suppose you would think of changing the name ? on my bank statement it looks like I am buying sex toys LOL

  6. Alison (verified owner)

    Absolutely my favorite dolman style pattern. The options included are awesome also!!! Top notch designer!!

  7. Teri (verified owner)

    I’m very happy with this pattern. Very flattering. I even made one for my mom after she saw mine. Would definitely recommend.

  8. Stephanie (verified owner)

    This is a quick sew that is very flattering. Love this pattern!

  9. alison (verified owner)

    Love this top, I’ve already made several. I like how it is slim fit, so it hugs the curves a bit. So easy to sew and I like the way the sleeves are done. Great instructions as always!

  10. Sarah (verified owner)

    For as simple as this top is, it manages to fit in a very flattering way. I prefer to scoop the neckline a bit deeper, but other than that I find this pattern to be perfect as is.

  11. Alisha (verified owner)

    I love, love, love this top in the tunic length. It’s simple to sew and super comfortable and flattering. The instructions are very clear and easy to follow.

  12. Victoria (verified owner)

    This is a really simple top that goes a long way in my wardrobe! I love that it is easy to sew, easy to follow and very flattering.

  13. Anne (verified owner)

    I haven’t sewn this pattern yet, but it’s on my list!

  14. Rachel Hood (verified owner)

    I LOVE THIS TOP!!! I made it with cowl neck and used the tunic length for the back and shirt length in the front which created a super cute and comfy high-low effect. (I’m a shorty so a full tunic doesn’t look great on me but I needed to cover my backside) I also added the inseam pockets but after doing so, I won’t use DBP for them on my next version. There’s so much stretch that when you put anything in the pocket they drop below the shirt hem. Maybe adding a stabilizer to them? I’ll figure it out though because did I mention how much I love this pattern??? So so comfy!!! The sizing is accurate and the directions are easy to follow and the result looks like a retail product!

  15. Nicole (verified owner)

    Love this for a nice, casual mini or even dressed up. So many options that it’s worth it for those alone!

  16. Tammy (verified owner)

    Cute tunic! I LOVE the pockets in the tunic. I’ve made one, and its cute, but looks (on me) more like pajamas. I think its the fabric I chose, and want to try again. I love the sleeve cuffs as I think they’d be cute to make w/contrasting colors. 😀 As always I love the layered pattern, as well as the trimless feature! 😀 😀

  17. Trista

    I bought this for myself and my oldest. Neither of us like clothes that are real form fitting. The LBD tops are both of our favs. So comfy and cute. The instructions are well written and easy to follow.

  18. Chelsey (verified owner)

    I love this pattern! Made it in a slinky ribbed sweater knit, and it’s one of my favorite tops. The neckline is so flattering and gorgeous on everyone. And there’s so many view options you can make it over and over again! Also a very quick sew.

  19. Laura (verified owner)

    I adore this pattern! I have made it at least 8 times and I’m getting ready to make one in a sweater knit. It is a snap to make!

  20. Glenda (verified owner)

    This is my favorite dolman top pattern. I’ve made 6 so far and each one is different. Sizing and instructions are spot on. I like how this top can be made out of very little fabric.

  21. Tammy (verified owner)

    I’m pretty sure I’ve reviewed this before, but wanted to update: This pattern is awesome! I have made so many and have lost count!!! This is my go-to top for a quick sew. I have transferred my pattern (with my scooped neck and shortened torso modification) onto poster board and I love it. I also love that I can squeeze out my size on one yard of fabric!!!

  22. SequoiaLynn Sews

    This pattern is fantastic! So thankful it is now in my size range. I love the options included, but most of all…perfect fit! WTG Love Notions!

  23. Mary (verified owner)

    As an XS person with wider shoulders I was reluctant to try this pattern expecting the loose fit might overwhelm my smaller body. But, it’s perfect. Raglan tops, if they fit it the shoulders are too big in the bust. The fit on this dolman style avoids that problem. And the interesting sleeve design adds to the fun.

    • Keira Wood (verified owner)

      Thank you so much for this lovely comment! So glad it worked well for you! Happy Sewing! ~K

  24. Hannah Carriere (verified owner)

    This was very first Love Notions pattern purchase and certainly got me hooked! The clear instructions and endless possibilities are a fabulous combination. I’ve since made several and each time I’m thrilled.

  25. Susan (verified owner)

    I absolutely love this pattern! So far, I have made the short sleeve t-shirt length, and the short sleeve tunic. I can’t believe how fast and easy it was, like less than an hour to cut out and make. The directions are very clear and simple to follow. I like how many variations there are so I can keep making more and every one looks different. The fit is very nice with a flattering cut. I will be making more, for sure.

  26. Ronna Plank (verified owner)

    What’s not to love about this dolman? It’s so easy to sew and so many options to choose. I can make a new shirt in an hour and be out the door looking stylish in no time. I love the banded option so I don’t even have to stress about hemming it!

  27. Lizel Schwartz (verified owner)

    This is probably one of love notions Signature patterns. It’s just an awesome design. I made quite a few of these, and they are so comfortable. I made a few versions. Tops and dresses. Very well-designed pattern and a must-have!! Well done on the design of this one.

  28. Pat Semeraro

    The La Bella Donna top is one of my favorite LN patterns. I have made it for both summer and winter wear. I was excited to find out that I could make the cap sleeve version with just 1 yard of fabric!

  29. lindaclbc (verified owner)

    I’m going to give this 5 stars in advance because I think I will love it too. In purchased it yesterday because of the sleeve options and have some of my knits in my stash planned for It

  30. chrisptoft (verified owner)

    I love this pattern, it is so flattering to wear. It seems very “dressy” but is so simple and quick to sew up! The instructions are very clear, and as always I love that there is a full bust pattern piece which saves a lot of work. I will definitely be making more of these as soon as I get more fabric 🙂

  31. Kristina K (verified owner)

    I love this pattern. It is so flattering and easy to customize. My favorite version is colorblocked with a different color for front and back which adds a cute detail to the dolman sleeves. I especially love the extra long cuffs on the sleeves.

  32. Jaye Holland (verified owner)

    I just love this pattern. So many options but my fav is the tunic length with leggings. The cowl is a perfect addition.

  33. Karen (verified owner)

    I love this pattern! With so many options I was able to make tops for myself(65), my daughter(41) and my granddaughter(15)! It was the perfect pattern for me since I’ve just started sewing garments again after 25 years! I recommend this pattern to everyone!

  34. shazah.sw (verified owner)

    This was the first PDF pattern I purchased after a long break from sewing. I’m so pleased with the three I’ve made up, and the instructions couldn’t be easier to follow. I was inspired by Keira and her gorgeous green version.

  35. Hayley Lown (verified owner)

    I really like the versatility of this top!

  36. Alyssa Shramek (verified owner)

    I already had another dolman pattern, but I just enjoy Love Notions’ draft so much, I had to get this one, and I do not regret it! I also enjoy that dolmans are quick sews

  37. Leslie Clanin (verified owner)

    I have made 3 of these and I love them all!

  38. Sharon Gilbert (verified owner)

    I’ve made this twice. One is in a camo French Terry long sleeves and it came out awesome! It’s so much easier to do dolman sleeves and not set in sleeves. The second one is in dbp short sleeves, I didn’t have to do a sleeve hem because it has a sleeve band. Drafting and cut out of pattern is so clever and different!

  39. sschillawski1

    This is the first online pattern I ever used. This is the first knit pattern I ever made. It was the first piece of clothing I ever made. It was somewhere around five years ago, and I still have cowl neck lbd in my closet and I wear it often.

  40. Deneane Keane (verified owner)

    If you only buy one pattern, buy LBD! Easiest sew, super cute and works for both casual and dressier looks! My most made LN pattern!

  41. Amy Blough (verified owner)

    This pattern is a winner. I just made my third version, I love all the options, I’ve made all 3 sleeve options, a hood and a banded neckline. The curved hem is so flattering, but there is a band if you don’t feel like hemming. It’s a very fast sew, almost completely on my serger. I use the full bust piece to get a a fit that is perfect. I love a pattern that always delivers a premium result.

  42. Renee Morgan (verified owner)

    Awesome easy pattern! I made a short sleeve LBD in french terry and it is now my favorite shirt. The shirt went together super fast and can’t wait to make up more!

  43. Brenda Pena (verified owner)

    Love love notions patterns! so easy to follow from beginning to end. This top has so many options and it feels sexy without being a v~neck. Thank you so much !

  44. Mary Gellatly (verified owner)

    I love this easy and versatile pattern. I made a few short sleeve versions in viscose jersey for the summer and have now just made a hooded and a cowl neck version of the tunic length for the autumn. So cosy.

  45. Jamie Edwards (verified owner)

    I love this pattern! It’s a quick sew, great for a new sewist. I’ve made 2 versions so far, and my favorite of the two is a 3/4 sleeve, with the cowl neck and banded bottom. It’s so cozy and perfect for fall time.

  46. dmschindlbeck (verified owner)

    This pattern is a top you can literally whip up in a few hours. I’ve made 3 so far, but my fav is the long sleeve with the cowl neck. The fit is spot on! I really like the curved hem option as well. If you’re intimidated by a cowl neckline don’t be. It’s very easy.

  47. RebeccaB (verified owner)

    I’ve only made 1 so far, but already see what all the fuss is about! For the basic version, this is another “faster to sew a new shirt than do the laundry” situation and it really fits so nicely, just like everyone says (I made the size I measured into and didn’t need to make any adjustments). I can’t wait to experiment more with the different options.

  48. Mic Cas (verified owner)

    Such a versatile pattern. So many choices.

  49. karynkemp37 (verified owner)

    I purchased this on one of the Friday sales and it’s become my favorite. It’s quick and easy to sew. It’s also great to make for others with its easy fit.

  50. Teresa Miller (verified owner)

    I used to sew when I was younger and am slowly getting back into it. Sewing with stretch material and a serger are new to me. So with an old, old serger I inherited from a relative and this great and easy pattern, I set off. The finished top was a quick sew and is awesome. I think I’m getting the bug again! Thanks so much Love Notions!!

  51. Shirley Jarrett (verified owner)

    This is a favorite of mine when I want a casual top with classic lines. Love it!

  52. jen.bussie (verified owner)

    This has got to be one of my favorites to sew up! It’s a super cute top that takes no time at all to sew! Easiest shirt I’ve ever made! Thanks LN great pattern!

  53. soaper.yt (verified owner)

    This is my “go-to” Love Notions pattern. I’ve made it for my daughter, daughter-in-law, both granddaughters, and three for me. I never get tired of it. And today, I think that I’ll cut another! ????????????

  54. djandersonw (verified owner)

    This is an easy, quick sew and turns out great. I have made a few for myself and for my daughter. I usually make a 3/4 sleeve by just extending the main sleeve. It’s a good pattern for all seasons

  55. Sue Maynard (verified owner)

    This pattern is so simple to sew and yet so flattering and versatile. I have made half a dozen, mostly with no added sleeves in jersey for summer, and plan several more for this year. I just turn under the neck and armhole openings (no cuff) so it’s even simpler and quicker, but still looks great. Wonderful pattern!

  56. Coreen Russell (verified owner)

    This is such a cute, comfortable top-I’ve made a cowl w 3/4 sleeve, tunic length; a short sleeve, banded; and a 3/4 sleeved short length. They’re worn every week and never look like duplicates. Great, easy to follow pattern.

  57. powejj01 (verified owner)

    This is my go to pattern for when I’ve lost my sewjo. It’s so quick and easy and I love the options!

  58. Frances Campbell (verified owner)

    My first and favourite Love Notions pattern!

    A great all-rounder, can be made in summer weight fabric just as easily as in a cosy sweater knit for those cold winter days.

    I absolutely LOVE this pattern and have made so many I’ve lost count. It’s such a flattering shape and so comfortable to wear.

    Just buy it. You won’t regret it!

  59. Liz LeFevre (verified owner)

    I love, love this pattern. It fits great and is easy to sew. Best of all, in my size (L), it only takes one yard!!!

  60. Shawn Geist (verified owner)

    I absolutely love this pattern! It is so easy and looks great when finished. I have sewn several and have plans for several more as I ease back into sewing garments for myself. I love all the inspiration and support from every one associated with Love Notions – from the owners, to the ambassadors, to the every day people who offer such great help and advise. Keep the great patterns coming!

  61. Vernona Hale (verified owner)

    One of my favorites. I have made 2 for me and 2 for my daughter. Easily modified and easy to fit.

  62. doors (verified owner)

    I LOVE this pattern!!!! Last Saturday morning I was playing in the sewing room with fabric and, as it does, one thing led to another and I ended up with a beautiful LBD top from stash ITY! I liked it so much that I wore it that night to a casual reception instead of my original planned outfit top! Many compliments.

  63. Amy Blough (verified owner)

    THE best top pattern! I love love love the LaBella Donna. It has so many options, that you can make it over and over. Easy to sew, and all the options I have listed here used less than 2 yards of fabric for a size 2x with a full bust piece. I have made 2 cowl sweaters with bands, One hoodie shirt in jersey with a band ( that I am wearing right now!), One crew neck shirt in french terry with long sleeves and a curved hem (the hem is the perfect length, btw) a short sleeve top crew neck in DBP with a band and a 3/4 sleeve top in rayon spandex with a crew neck and curved hem. That makes 6 different tops from one pattern! This is a must have for every woman.

  64. Lorna Van Steen (verified owner)

    Have this all cut out and ready to sew! I love how easy LN patterns are to sew

  65. Annette (verified owner)

    I sewed about 5 different versions of this last winter and loved them all. It’s a great pattern for a warm winter sweater. Now to try it in a Spring version

  66. odyjimg (verified owner)

    I have made this 6 times — it is a top made from heaven!! I made 4 for myself with variations like the hood, long sleeve, 3/4 sleeve, and short sleeve. I also made it for my daughter, and my hair dresser because when they saw it on me, loved it and wanted one for themselves. The LBD is not only a fun make, but fast. There will be more in my future because it is a TNT pattern now!!

  67. cabral_shana (verified owner)

    Can you make too many versions of one pattern? Nah!! I have made over 10 versions of the LBD. Cowls, hoodies, banded hem, loose hem, dressed down or dressed up! This pattern offers so much! I love that if you have a metre of fabric, you can make the tee. It’s a very easy sew, perfect for beginners with the ability to expand beyond the basic t-shirt pattern. A definite fave!

  68. tsmacdonaldts (verified owner)

    Brilliant pattern, spot on size chart that made it super easy to accomodate my ‘unique’ body shape. Sewing guide super easy to follow, amazingly easy top to make. I’ve used this for casual wear, tweaked it for evening wear glamour and it makes the best ever summer pj tops. Easy to pump out a few of these at a time and in a light modal or dbp it makes super easy gift idea when unable to actually measure the receiver.

  69. Anne Pericoi (verified owner)

    A great pattern with so many options, a must-have: a quick so for a great result!

  70. Lori Jessen (verified owner)

    I didn’t think I’d like how this looks on me, but it’s so flattering! Love Notions, I should learn not to doubt you…

  71. MaryLou Battista (verified owner)

    I wasn’t sure about this pattern, but after reading all the reviews, I thought I would give it a try. I now own 3: a wearable muslin and two of my most favorite shirts! The LBD will be a major part of my wardrobe from now on!

  72. soaper.yt (verified owner)

    One of my favorites! I’ve made (for myself) two of the short sleeve banded version, and one of the long sleeve “shirt tail” hem version. I’ve also made this for my daughter, daughter-in-law, and the kids version for my granddaughters. I just absolutely love this pattern. I think it’s time to make another.😄

  73. DaVerne Wood (verified owner)

    The La Bella Donna is such an easy sew that has so many options! This will be a staple as a go-to pattern for all the seasons. I have made a tunic length with a cowl and it sewed up so quickly because of the Dolman design and the easy-to-follow instructions. Another great pattern to add to my collection that will be used time and again. Thank you LN!

  74. Lynn Hermanek (verified owner)

    This is a great pattern for beginners and it is so quick and easy to make! It also takes very little fabric. Win, win, win!

  75. Jamie Edwards (verified owner)

    I love this pattern! I have made 3 different versions so far, and each one is so comfortable and easy to wear. So many options, and such a quick sew! I made one to wear for Christmas Day, and it took an hour from start to finish (including cutting out the fabric and changing my serger thread!)

  76. Tammy Isaacs (verified owner)

    This is my go to top. I have made so many of these tops because they are so easy to put together. I don’t get to sew very often so when I do I like something simple and this top is it. I am still fairly new to sewing and this is a very good pattern for beginner sewist.

  77. michellekwallace (verified owner)

    One of the things I love about this pattern is that it’s an all-year-round pattern. I make the long sleeve tunic with the cowl or hood for winter, the short sleeve shirt for summer, and combinations of all the options for in between.It fits well and is a quick easy make. This is a tried and true pattern for me.

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