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Skirt Challenge Inspiration: Summer Maxi Skirt

Hi Fashionistas:

It's May and I decided to jump into the summer skirt challenge!

This is my very first time making a gathered maxi skirt. I chose this beautiful and summery print. The fabric is a chiffon.


This is my second time working with chiffon. The first time I failed miserably, so it has taken me a long time to pick this type of fabric up again! This time around I took an online class on working with sheers. I'll include that information for you and also some tips and tricks  I picked up to make this project a success.


If you saw my silk top, I mentioned some of the challenges I ran into. Since then, I took this online class on sewing with sheers and I was better prepared to deal with a sheer fabric. I do recommend taking this class if you want to take away some of the frustration of working with sheers.  

Here is the back and side view:


I used an invisible zipper on the center back. I was a bit worried about how fragile the chiffon is, but I doubled it up on the center back by folding the chiffon under. This gave me two layers of chiffon, which is more stable than one. I also have a full lining on the skirt, so the lining also added some stability. 


Here are some things I learned from this sewing project:
  • Never cut chiffon on the fold. Only cut one layer at a time!
  • Cut the fabric by placing it on top of paper. This stabilizes it and if the paper is a rectangle, you can use the edges of the paper to make sure your straight grain and cross grain are correctly aligned while cutting.
Here are some challenges I had with this project:
  • Keeping the fabric straight while cutting! It was challenging. 
  • My fabric around my zipper was a bit "ruffly". Luckily for me, the skirt is gathered, so the imperfection is hidden. 
The skirt hit floor length with heels on, which is how I plan to wear it. I paired it with a white tee. Here are some pictures of the garment construction:

I drafted a straight waistband using my waist measurement. I top stitched two rows on the top of the waistband.


The skirt is lined.  The lining is an A-line skirt instead of a gathered skirt to reduce bulk.  For the fashion fabric, I gathered it manually and attached it to the lining. Then attached the lining to the waistband.  So the entire piece is self-drafted/ free handed.


This is the fabric I used. I hope you enjoyed this project!  I will see you in the month of June! Are you participating in the skirt challenge!? If so, please post your skirts on Instagram using #sewcoolskirts!

See you soon!

XOXO
Vatsla at Fashion Behind The Seams


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. 

Comments

  1. Your link to the online class you were referencing is broken...it doesn't take you to the source!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks for catching it! We just updated it.

      Delete

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