Friday 18 April 2014

Teach Me Fashion Draped Skirt: The Second

As soon as I finished my first version of the Teach me Fashion Draped Skirt, I knew I needed to make another one. One that would fit! The first I made in a medium out of cotton sateen and it fits a petite friend really well.  But, I couldnt get it past my knees. So, for this version it was time to try a knit fabric. I bought a cheap heavy polyester knit from Darn Cheap Fabrics. It's tricky to photograph, but it has a great textured diamond pattern. These photos were taken in direct sun which makes for crappy pics overall, but hopefully helps you see the skirt details a little better?

Teach me Fashion Draped Skirt

I thought a lot about what size to make. I considered going up a size. However, my research background kept me from changing too many variables at one time, and my lack of paper kept me from printing out another PDF pattern to cut in a larger size. Thus I made another medium with no changes.

Teach me Fashion Draped Skirt

Once again, the skirt came together super quickly. I didn't both finishing any seams as I wasn't sure how the fit was going to be. Also, I'm stubborn and refuse to finish seams on knits until I get an overlocker. It was a little tricky sewing on the waistband as the fabric is quite thick and my machine struggled with the four layers at the front piece. I also notice a little bulge in the fabric under the waistband when I'm wearing it, which really isn't an ideal spot for fabric bulge.

Teach me Fashion Draped Skirt

As this fabric has much more stretch and drape than my cotton sateen version the drape is much less structured/obvious. I suppose less of a pleat and more of a drape?

Teach me Fashion Draped Skirt

So, as you can see, this size medium polyester knit skirt DOES fit! My recommendation on choosing fabric would be to definitely use a knit. If you really want to go with a woven stretch than consider going up 1 or 2 sizes and maybe even inserting a zipper. Even then, the shape/fit might be off around the waist.

Teach me Fashion Draped Skirt

Will I sew the pattern again? Well, this is my first fitted knit skirt (ever). I love the style but feel a little self conscious in it. I think I'll wait to see how much wear it gets and perhaps make more if I feel I can pull the look off. Colette Patterns just released a basic fitted knit skirt (Mabel) which I know many curvy and less curvy will love and look amazing in. Mary's, from Idel Fancy, version of Mabel is so freakin beautiful and she looks divine in it. But still, I know I'd feel self-conscious, and even a bit naked, in something that figure hugging without any distracting details. I think the front detail in the Draped Skirt pattern draws attention away from the thighs/belly. Note: this is my crazy insecurity and I'm totally pro curvy ladies flaunting there booty! I'm interested to hear others thought's on  fitted knit skirts. Are they a wardrobe staple for you (I wish this was me), or are you just a little afraid of them (like I am)?

Teach me Fashion Draped Skirt

*Teach Me Fashion generously offered me the Draped Skirt Pattern for free. Of course, all opinions are my own. *

7 comments:

  1. I think you look great! The skirt compliments your body.

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  2. Great skirt! The drape detail on the front is really interesting and it looks a perfect fit. I'm planning to try my hand at that new Colette pattern soon. I love this style of skirt but the few times I tried RTW ones on in shops, I just couldn't find a good fit so felt really self-conscious. Hopefully I'll like what I make myself!

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    1. Thanks Sue! I have had the same problem of RTW skirts not fitting, or just not making me feel good. I can see myself wearing this to work with tights maybe. Goodluck with your skirt!

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  3. It looks great so I hope you don't feel self-conscious when you wear it, but I definitely know what you mean about the fear of fitted knit skirts!

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    1. Thanks Ruth! Yes I fear everything that's close fitted. But then, that style is often more flattering than baggy.

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  4. I think you really work this skirt and I wouldn't feel in the least self conscious. You look great and the details of this skirt so make it. I am keen to try this pattern myself. Wardrobe staples like this are the ones you just keep going back to.

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