In the dead of winter I always keep myself going by thinking of summer. By February, the daylight returns and my hope for warmer days rises. While I’m waiting, I whipped up two Primo tees for spring, but they are equally suited for layering on cold days.

The Primo tee by Readytosew was released last summer, and at first I didn’t think it was for me. I’ve become very accustomed to the more boxy styles with high necklines that have been all the rage the past couple of years, and a fitted tee with a scooped neckline seemed unfamiliar.

However, I was kindly asked to make a test version prior to the release by Raphaëlle of Readytosew and gladly accepted the offer regardless of having doubts. During the testing process last summer I re-discovered the value of a more fitted tee as a layering piece or for tucking into high-waisted bottoms.

The Primo tee is fitted, shaped at the waist, with high cut sleeves and a feminine wide neckline. It works best in a fabric with at least 50% crosswise stretch and good recovery. I have sized up, too, for a more comfortable look. I don’t appreciate feeling too body conscious in tightly fitting clothes, so a little ease is necessary. However, the stretch and recovery of the fabric is very important for the fit, so in this instance I could have gotten away with my regular size.

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The fabric is a gorgeous jersey in modal/tencel with 10% elastane. The stretch is a whopping 70%. It has wide ribs and a wonderful drape and touch. It is so soft, feeling like a warm light breeze touching my skin. Unfortunately the fabric is sold out by now, but if it reappears I’ll stock up immediately. I bought two pieces of it from Metermeter a couple of months ago, in a deep navy and a soft khaki green. Both are really versatile colors in my wardrobe and go with most of my bottoms, so I know these two basics will get a lot of wear.

Because it still is cold, I chose the view with longer sleeves. For now, they are great for layering under shirts or sweaters when you don’t want anything to show, and in early spring I know I will love wearing them under a light blazer or jacket. The instructions are impeccable as always with Readytosew patterns, and I definitely recommend the Primo if you need an alternative to your regular boxy t-shirts. It’s a quick make, I made mine entirely on the overlocker and coverstitched the hems and neckline, but a regular machine would work, too, just remember tu use a seam with some stretch. If you have some experience you can whip up a couple of these in an evening, and the pattern is definitely easy to go to for a beginner, too.

Pattern: Primo tee by Readytosew
Size: 42 (one size up from my measurements in the sizing table)
Fabric: 1.2 m modal rib jersey from Metermeter
Time: 1-2 hours