Simplicity 8926 hand made top

A different type of crafting for me yesterday, making this top using SimplicityS8926 sewing pattern. I chose this pattern and fabric as I am at the age where I fluctuate in temperatures hourly, so I thought somthing light and floaty would be ideal.

I originally made it longer, but after spending ages hand sewing the hem, decided it needed to be a few inches shorter, so cut three inches off then machine hemmed.

I like it more now that it is shorter, however I am not totally happy withe the neckline, it's a little big on me and gapes at the central front and back neckline area (circled). I think if I make the top again, I will make it in a size smaller and maybe use medium weight interfacing rather than light weight. I guess I should really make a toille before cutting into proper fabric, but having spent ages tracing the pattern and markings I just want to get cracking on the construction.

I really do wish I had a sewing guru I could consult on sewing.  I try my best, but generally I end up with something I'm not happy with for one reason or another/