Ladies tunic pattern

Hi all-
I am looking for a pattern for a ladies tunic top that has a mandarin collar and a kind of tailored look. I am an inexperienced clothing maker so I would not be good at altering a pattern on my own. And this also means I need an easy to follow pattern/directions.

Is it just me, or do you all find the ones you can find at the big box fabric stores a whole bunch of jibberish that is nearly illegible?!!!!
I mean like Simplicity (ha, that's a joke!), Vogue, etc.

thanks-
lynn

This is what I think whenever I sit down to sew a new pattern. Although, I don't think the independent ones are that much better than the big box patterns.
I take it one step at a time with the project in front of me and things usually go smoothly. It helps to picture the last step and work backwards from there.
Now if I can just get things to fit right! 

I've found that many PDF patterns are easier to follow than traditional patterns.  As a visual learner, the extra step-by-step pictures were really helpful as i learned to sew clothing.  I'd recommend this one by Sis Boom:

http://www.sewmamasew.com/store/ecom-prodshow/PTSBPATRICIA.html

Not quite a mandarin collar, but I love this one and have it on my wish list!  I've used many of Carla C's patterns and she is great about giving extra help if you have trouble along the way.  I've actually never had an independent PDF pattern maker not respond when I've sent emails with questions or comments.  Good luck and happy sewing!

I don't know if this is what you were looking for, but I made the Amy Butler Lotus Tunic and I love it. I reviewed the pattern on my site (http://sewsweetness.blogspot.com/2010/09/amy-butler-lotus-tunic-and-cami.html) if this is something you like!

Thanks for this post.  I have this pattern and even the fabric on the pattern, I just keep putting off making it because I've heard bad things about the fit.  I will study your post carefully when I attempt this pattern.
It looks super on you.  Makes me want to drop 20lbs before I make it though. lol