Florence top

Florence Top Crochet Pattern

What is Being Made

The Florence top is a crocheted garment designed by Izabela Firlová that features a structured button-front closure. This intermediate-level crochet project creates a fitted top worked from the bottom up, beginning with a rectangular foundation that is later extended on the sides and finished with button holes and straps. The design is versatile across multiple sizes, ranging from XS to XXL, making it adaptable for various body measurements.

Construction Technique

The Florence top is constructed using a bottom-up building method, which allows for easy adjustments and fitting as you work. The pattern begins by establishing the width of the structured center panel through a chain foundation calculated in multiples of 8 plus 1. This base chain is approximately 10 to 4 inches smaller than your bust measurement to account for the extensions that will be added later. After completing the rectangular base section, the sides are lengthened to create the full garment shape. Button holes are strategically incorporated into the design, with seven buttons used to secure the front closure. The top is finished with straps that complete the garment structure. The pattern notes that the fit should not be too tight, as overly snug sizing may cause the buttons to loosen and unbutton during wear.

Stitches Used

• Chain stitch (ch) – used to create the foundation and throughout the pattern
• Single crochet (sc) – a fundamental stitch used in the main fabric construction
• Double crochet (dc) – used to add texture and structure to the garment
• Slip stitch (ss) – used for joining and finishing
• dc9tog – a specialized decrease stitch that combines nine double crochets together, indicated by the ** notation showing this section repeats throughout the pattern

Materials and Tools

The Florence top requires a 4 mm crochet hook and DK weight yarn. The pattern specifies Gazzal organic cotton yarn with a yardage of 320 meters for the project. The gauge is measured at 21 single crochets to 20 rows over a 4-inch square, which is essential for achieving proper fit and drape. Additional materials include seven buttons for the front closure and a needle for sewing in yarn ends to finish the garment neatly.

Size Range and Measurements

The pattern provides detailed sizing information for six different sizes. The XS size uses a chain of 105 stitches (63 cm or 24.8 inches), the S size chains 121 stitches (70 cm or 27.6 inches), the M size chains 137 stitches (77 cm or 30.3 inches), the L size chains 153 stitches (84 cm or 33 inches), the XL size chains 169 stitches (91 cm or 35.8 inches), and the XXL size chains 184 stitches. Each size is calculated to be approximately 10 centimeters or 4 inches smaller than the intended bust measurement, allowing for comfortable fit when the side extensions are added during construction.