The first project I worked on during sewing week, was not a new project at all but a modification of an existing garment, on that I had, in fact, made last year at sewing week.
The first picture is from 2006 when I finished the skirt. I loved the skirt. I have other skirts that length which I also love, including a pleated wool plaid skirt this exact length which I wear constantly, but I don't wear this skirt. Although this is my favorite Simplicity skirt pattern (the same one as the blue eyelet) somehow, it is a poor match of fabric, style, and skirt length. It is exactly what I thought I wanted, but apparently I was wrong.
I took the skirt to sewing week in hopes of finding some way to make the skirt work for me. We decided to add a band at the bottom of the skirt. My guess, just from eyeballing the skirt and guessing what width of band looked good with the fabric, was that I needed a 5 inch band. Sandra's more scientific method, based on having me try on the skirt and then measuring where she thought the hem should fall, was for a 5 inch band. Perfect agreement.
I like this skirt much better. Technically, I think the length hits my leg at a point that is not the most flattering, and is more difficult to pair with the right shoes/hose. But I like wearing the skirt much more. I like the length, I like the way it hangs, I like the feel of the charmeuse hem band. All in all I think it is a success., although not perhaps with the sweater set shown, for obvious reasons. (updated to add that I am reconsidering the sweater set. I does go with the skirt, but I am not sure if it doesn't make me look curvier than my comfort level allows)
I think the skirt will be nice with boots in the winter as well. I still have the fabric for the planned jacket, and now that I am happier with the skirt I have ideas for that as well.
I like the change you made to the garment. I also like the view from your deck!!!
Posted by: Roseana | October 05, 2007 at 05:50 AM
Hey I'm with Vicki! I love the added band to the skirt and I think the twinset really works with the skirt. Nice save!
Posted by: Carolyn | October 03, 2007 at 08:55 PM
I really like the changes too! And I think the twin set matches perfectly....so am I missing something?
Posted by: Vicki | October 03, 2007 at 05:49 PM
Hi Mardel,
What a difference a little trim makes. I "saw" the dark pink in the fabric before you sewed with it; that's one of my favorite accent colors. It looks good on you. Go with it!
Posted by: Vicky J | October 02, 2007 at 09:48 PM
The skirt looks great with the modifications!
Posted by: Vicki W | October 02, 2007 at 09:01 PM