The Pleated Skirt · Extract from Skirts & Dresses for First Time Sewers by Christine Haynes · How To Sew A Pleated Skirt

Description

Skirts & Dresses for First Time Sewers\r\nPersonally, I love a good pleat. It is a much more formal and polished way to create fullness in a garment, and when not in motion, the fabric hangs flat, unlike the pouf of a gather, making a smooth and flattering line. Pleats are great because they look impressive, but they are incredibly easy to create by simply folding fabric. They offer a nice alternative to gathers and, for the most part, any spot that has gathers can usually become pleats and vice versa. I have made this version of a pleated skirt easier for the beginner sewer by including a simple elastic waistband. Key characteristics The main element of this skirt are the folds of fabric that create the pleats. The waistband has elastic and from there the fullness of the folds fall down from the waist to the hem. This short version lands mid-thigh. Who does it suit? The pleats of the skirt will create volume for a larger hip, and the elastic waist will stretch to fit to either your natural waist or your hip, depending on where you would like to wear it. Keep in mind that this skirt is rather short, so be ready to bare some leg! Suitable fabrics Because the pleats will be pressed, it’s easiest for a beginner to stick to natural fibres that will take to an iron easily, like cotton and linen. Also, due to the elastic waist, bulk is not a good idea, so I recommend looking for a quilt-weight cotton or similar fabric. Styling tips To downplay the sweetness of this skirt, try wearing it with a concert T-shirt, tights and boots to give it a bit of a rocker edge. Alternatively, if you want to work the youthful angle, a cardigan and flats will look fresh and timeless. Opposite: Floral skirt by La Redoute. Above: Vintage sheer black mini skirt, styled by Kelly Stiles (t); Pleated vintage skirt, styled by Jean Dotts (b).