I used to have a pattern like that. I think it was knitted from the neck down. It's been a long time, so I can't remember how it was done. I do know it was in a Woman's Day special sweater edition.

The top-down raglan sweater is indeed an option. Here are some links to free patterns:
http://glampyreknits.tripod.com/glampyrephotos/id44.html
http://spincraftpatterns.com/index.php?cPath=53&osCsid=ab368498db8e82d8b97ca99595f7b102
http://individual.utoronto.ca/cosmicpluto/2005/02/pattern-time.html

If you find you like the top-down option, check out the Knitting
Pure and Simple patterns as well:
http://www.knittingpureandsimple.com
Spincraft sells some as well (link above)

The infamous "Sitcom Chic"sweater from Knitty is also done on circulars, I believe, but is from the bottom up:
http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEspring03/PATTsitcomchic.html

Alot of the Lopi patterns are done entirely on circulars and double-points. Do a websearch for "lopi patterns" and you'll find many sources. Your lys should carry them as well.

Good luck!