Skirt Challenge Inspiration: A Flowy Summer Maxi
Julie from Fabric Mart contacted me late last month and asked if I wanted to participate in Fabric Mart's Skirt Challenge (#sewcoolskirts) for May. Of course I said yes. I mean who doesn't need a new skirt for spring!
Now my skirt isn't made from a current pattern. I have way too many TNT skirt patterns in my pattern collection to reinvent the wheel. However, my skirt is influenced by an ad that was in my email box.
Inspiration Photo from Dressbarn.com
My fabric is a lightweight ponte from Fabric Mart. I purchased it a couple of months ago and while not exactly the same, it is very similar to the fabric in my inspiration picture.
A little more about my skirt ~
I've really fallen in love with the slim fit through the hips yet flared at the hemline maxi skirts. When I saw the ad featuring the black and white maxi skirt, I knew that my TNT 4 gore skirt with an elastic waistline would work to make one of my own. I had to make a few alterations to my pattern piece but that and the ponte fabric got me a new maxi skirt just in time for the hot weather.
Pattern Alterations ~
- I started by making a pattern sandwich to get a maxi length skirt pattern piece. The original skirt pattern piece was placed on my cutting table.
- Then I added the shortened version on top of it.
- Finally some tracing paper.
- I traced the top and sides of the skirt and added 6" to the hemline adding just enough flare to the sides so the skirt hangs properly.
1) Four pieces of the pattern were cut out and sewn together.
2) I inserted 1" non-roll elastic to the waistline casing.
3) After trying the skirt on, it was a tad too long.
4) So I serged an inch off the hemline.
5) A 1/2" hem was turned up, pressed down and then stitched
6) Walah! An easy peasy new maxi skirt!
A few photos of the skirt in action ~
I used a lightweight ponte for this version because I loved the drape and flow of the fabric. However, the skirt will be great in challis, linens, ltwt denims with a little stretch and voiles for summer. BTW, I'm wearing my skirt with a Concord T made with a cotton/lycra knit that I'm almost sure I purchased from Fabric Mart.
It's such a quick sew, perfect for summer. I know I will make a couple more of them because this skirt fits perfectly into my summer wearing ease philosophy.
I hope you'll make a quick 'n easy summer maxi this season too! Thank you Julie for asking me to participate in the Skirt Challenge!
Carolyn
Diary of a Sewing Fanatic
Thank you to Carolyn for being a guest blogger during the Skirt Challenge!
Share your me-made skirts thru May 31st and be entered to win a $50 gift certificate to Fabric Mart! Share on Facebook or Instagram using #sewcoolskirts.
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Posted on May 26 2017
What a nice summer outfit. Loose skirts are comfy and allow airflow to keep you cool. I like the top, too.
What a wonderful skirt and fabric selection Carolyn … FIESTA :)
I love me a black and white print. This skirt looks great on you and looks so easy and chic to wear <3
Ooh I made a skirt with FM fabric…I should share it on FB!
Great skirt! Really pretty!
Your skirt looks great! I think your FM fabric is maybe even a little better than the inspiration photo.
Great skirt!
Thanks Tacompat – it's a wonderful outfit to wear. Easy and effortless!
Thanks Monica! You know how much I love a good ponte!
N., you should definitely share it
Thanks Tee, appreciate the compliment!
Lovely skirt, Carolyn. It's perfect for this season.
Carolyn, this is gorgeous! I love it! I want one now!
Good job, Carolyn. I think I will have to make a skirt.