A (super simple) spring midi skirt, linen and lace
I read once in a magazine, several years ago now, to a reader question about flattering skirt lengths, that the good news for all of us is that pretty much any skirt length is acceptable now. I'm not sure we can all use that in context, and there are definitely some skirt lengths I don't tend to wear, but it is nice to think about all the freedom we have out there when shopping for (and sewing!) skirts.
When I make dresses, I tend to go for just-above-the knee--a little shorter if it's a straight skirt, a little longer if it's fuller and fluffy. Or I do maxi lengths. But I've been enjoying pinning and thinking about longer-than-usual full/pleated skirts this spring, and so decided to make myself a midi skirt!
Some of my spring midi skirt inspiration...
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I love the light and bright colors, the fullness achieved through gathers or pleats, and the textures!
So here's my DIY version!
No pattern, just two rectangles of lace and two of lining, plus a waistband (which is interfaced), and an invisible zipper.
Very cool scalloped daisy lace c/o WholePort, and I used a lovely 100% linen for the lining/base layer, which is so much nicer to wear (and keep things modest) than a lightweight cotton or poly or nylon.
The border of the lace means I only had to hem the lining! Easy!
And then husband told me the cat was in the picture...
And then we just went with it.
Ready for some spring outfits with this one! Ideas??
Ah! So cute, I need to make one!
ReplyDeleteBrilliant skirt, looks perfect for spring/summer! (And great casual cat photo bombing too :) )
ReplyDeleteThe skirt is lovely as is the kitty :)
ReplyDeleteLove that skirt! I love the overlay fabric that you selected, making its own hemline. Makes for a fun skirt! And the kitty looks on as if he approves also!
ReplyDeleteOh! That skirt is very pretty!! Love the fabric!!! I want one!!
ReplyDeleteLovely skirt. Looks like it cost $$$.
ReplyDeleteGorgeous! What did you use for the waistband?
ReplyDeleteThanks! Same linen as the under layer of the skirt, cut two
ReplyDeletewaistband pieces plus one of interfacing (ironed to the front piece). Sewed
right sides together at the top edge, understitched, sewed right side to
pleated skirt, folded wrong side under 1/2” and “stitch in the ditch” from the
back.
I love the skirt! The first thing I thought to wear with it was a blue and white striped button down shirt and a brown leather belt for work. For casual wear, it might be fun to wear with a neon shirt.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful lace!
ReplyDeleteI love it, It's beautiful!
ReplyDeletei love the middie skirt trend. So fashionable and easy to make up. Yours is so sweet too.
ReplyDeleteI love this skirt. I think this is one of my favorites of things that you have made. I would add a red or yellow belt for a pop of color. I love the scallop hem. Very cute!!
ReplyDeleteHello! I nominate you for the very Inspiting Blogger Award! You can read more about it on my blog: http://the-0ther-blog.blogspot.nl/
ReplyDeleteLove the skirt btw!!! :)
This skirt is so gorgeous & delicate. I absolutely love it! I would love to try and make one for myself, I think it's just the essence of femininity! Great job Suzannah!
ReplyDeleteThat is a VERY becoming length for you. Lovely!
ReplyDeleteVery nice. That skirt would be super cute with a pop of neon!
ReplyDeleteGreat fabric! I love the scalloped hem.
ReplyDeleteSuper love this!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Alice!! Unfortunately I don't have time to join in right now but I really appreciate the nomination!
ReplyDeleteSorry I'm a bit late on this one; I'm thinking about making a midi skirt this weekend with similar pleats etc; I was thinking about doing just two rectangles etc as you did here; if I wanted it to stick out a bit more (as in your first inspiration pic) would I make the skirt pattern pieces wider at the bottom than the top, do you reckon (and create a bell-shaped curve from the top to the bottom of the skirt pieces rather than just making a trapeze-type shape)? Your advice would be super-useful but don't worry if you've not got time!
ReplyDeleteYes, that would work! You can also make the whole thing fuller by using extra wide fabric or 3 panels instead of 2. But cutting *slight* triangles/angles would make the bottom fuller without giving you as much extra fabric to pleat at the top. I believe that's how the skirt on this pattern is cut http://www.simplicity.com/p-4463-misses-dresses.aspx (I don't know for sure since I've never used the skirt part, but I think I remember seeing that). It works well for those!
ReplyDeleteThank you :) I'll let you know how I get on! Sadly didn't get time to start this weekend :/ but hey ho!
ReplyDelete