Pattern Review: True Bias Nikko Top & Dress

The True Bias Nikko Dress is one of those patterns that’s deceptively simple yet endlessly wearable. With its clean lines, mock neck, and straight silhouette, it’s a modern classic that works in so many fabrics and styling combinations.

For this make, I chose View C — the sleeveless dress with side slits — in a black and white striped rib knit. The result is a piece that’s both striking and versatile, perfect for layering or wearing solo.

🧵 Pattern Overview

The Nikko pattern offers four views:

• A & B – Tops (sleeveless or long‑sleeved)

• C & D – Dresses (sleeveless or long‑sleeved) with side slits to the knee

View C is the sleeveless dress — a streamlined shape that skims the body without clinging, with a mock neck for a polished finish and side slits for ease of movement.

✂️ Fabric Choice: Black & White Striped Rib Knit

The rib knit I used has excellent stretch and recovery, with a soft texture that’s comfortable against the skin. The bold black and white stripes give the minimalist silhouette a graphic edge.

Working with stripes meant careful pattern matching — I took extra time to align them at the side seams and across the slits so the lines flow cleanly around the body.

🪡 Sewing Experience

The Nikko is rated Advanced Beginner, and View C is a great introduction to sewing knits if you’ve already made a few stretch garments. Key points from my process:

• Stabilised shoulder seams with clear elastic to prevent stretching

• Reduced presser foot pressure to help the rib knit feed evenly

• Used a twin needle for a neat hem and armhole finish

• Pressed lightly with steam to avoid stretching the fabric out of shape

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The mock neck is cleverly drafted — it sits close without feeling restrictive, and the sleeveless cut makes it perfect for layering under jackets or cardigans.

👗 Fit & Adjustments

I cut my usual True Bias size and made no major fit changes, just a small hem adjustment to suit my height. The straight cut works well in rib knit, offering comfort and movement without losing shape.

💡 Styling Ideas

This sleeveless version is a true year‑round piece:

• Summer – Wear on its own with sandals and a wide‑brim hat

• Autumn/Winter – Layer over a fitted turtleneck or under a cropped jacket

• Workwear – Add a blazer and ankle boots for a smart, modern look

• Evening – Pair with heels and statement earrings for a minimalist chic vibe

  
  

  

✅ Verdict

The True Bias Nikko Dress – View C is a quick, satisfying sew that delivers a sleek, wearable result. In striped rib knit, it’s comfortable, eye‑catching, and endlessly versatile. I can see more sleeveless versions in my future — perhaps in a solid colour or a softer, drapier knit for a different feel.

💬 Have you made the Nikko yet? I’d love to know which view you chose and how you styled it.

Buy it Here: Nikko Top & Dress – True Bias

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