Winter Maxi Skirt Tutorial

                                

                                

Who says that maxi skirts are just for the summer? I saw a sweater paired with a maxi skirt on Pinterest and I fell in love. After going to the fabric store and finding this beautiful deep purple fabric, I knew that it was meant to be. If only we had a little snow on the ground to make the pictures complete.  

Supplies:

About 1 yard to 1 1/2 yards of fabric depending on your height.(I used about a 1 1/3 yard because I measured and need the skirt to be 42 inches long)

Sewing pins

9 inch zipper

Fabric scissors

Sewing Machine

Measuring Tape

Ruler or Cutting board with measurements marked

1. The first thing you need to do is measure how long you want the maxi skirt to be. Start by putting the measuring tape wherever you want the skirt to sit on your waist. Remember that we are going to sew a band around the top. Measure all the way to the floor. After you get this measure add about 2 inches for the hem and seam allowance for the band at the top. this is the length that you want your fabric. The width does not matter because we are going to pleat the skirt.

2. Okay, now that you've figured out how much fabric you need, lay the fabric out on a flat surface or cutting board. This purple fabric is a lightweight cotton. It is a little thicker so I didn't need any lining.

3. Instead of gathering the waistline, I decided to pleat it. This is a diagram on how to pleat fabric.

How To Pleat Fabric:

1. Mark where you want your pleat to be (31 on my cutting board)

2. Decide how big you want your pleats to be. Mine are 2 inches.

3. Pinch the fabric at the second mark (on my cutting board, this was at 33)

4. Take what you've pinched and fold it over till it reaches the first mark you made (31 on my cutting board)

4. Now that you've got the fabric pleated, baste across the pleats to keep them in place.

5. Cut the waistband of the skirt. Measure around your waist and add 1 inch seam allowance for the zipper. I cut the waistband about 5 inches wide. This leaves 1 inch for seam allowance and the rest is folded in half so when we finish the waistband should only be about 2 inches.

6. Iron the waistband in half and then 1/2 inch on each side for the seam.

7. Pin the waistband to the pleated skirt right sides together. Sew along the ironed fold.

8. Pin the skirt together along the side with right sides together. This skirt only has one seam. Mark 9 inches down from the middle fold in the waistband to leave room for the zipper.

9. Pin the zipper in and sew.

10. On the underside, pin the waistband down. Stitch along the seam.

11. Lastly, pin the hem and sew. My hem was about 1 1/4 inch with the 1/4 inch being folded under to prevent fraying.

Fall & Winter Style Must-Haves

       Since fall is officially here now, I decided to make a list of my favorite fall and winter pieces. This fall and winter, I decided to create a new style for myself. Last year, I wore a style of leggings and button-downs because jeans are hard to find for my 5’10” frame. I styled these button-downs with scarves, beanies, boots, and leg warmers. But this year I decided to go for a different approach to my problem: skirts! I was really inspired by Belle’s style from Once Upon a Time. Her style consists of skirts, tight, cardigans, and the cutest shoes. 

                       

  

My Fall & Winter Style Must-Haves:

1. Cardigans: Cardigans are one of my favorite fashion pieces. I love them because they can help transform summer tops into fall and winter tops. Cardigans are also super cozy and great to cuddle up in with a good book and some hot chocolate.

           

2. Skirts: Skirts are my new fall must-have. Skirts come in so many styles and colors that you can always find one that’s perfect for every event, personality, and style. 

          

3. Tights: If you are going to wear skirts in the winter, tights are a must. Not just your basic black, but lace, sheer and plum colored tights are some of my favorites. Paired with the perfect skirt and boots tights could really amp up your outfit.

          

4. Boots: Every girls’ best friend: her perfect pair of boots. Whether they are riding boots, ankle booties, lace ups, or slouchy, you are sure to find the perfect boot to fit your style and personality.

           

5. Scarves: Scarves have become so much more than just something that keeps your neck warm. They are a style accessory and there are so many different ways to wear then that there is no way you can go wrong.

6. Tank Top: Now I know that I said this was a fall and winter must-have list, but a tank top for layering is required during all seasons. Tank tops add depth to simple shirts and warmth on cold winter days.

                     

7. Colored Skinny Jeans: I love the trend of colored skinny jeans. During the spring, pastel jeans are awesome but fall jeans are my favorite. I love the maroon, plum, and red fall colors.

             

8. Coat: Everyone needs a winter coat. Last year, I got my leather jacket and it was my go-to every chilly morning. This year, I’m getting a pea coat and maybe some other stylish pieces that can act as a buffer to the cold winter air such as a blazer or jean jacket.

9. Patterned Leggings: Although I am not typically a fan of leggings as pants, I am obsessed with patterned leggings. They add a fun pop to any outfit and can add dimension to a plain top.

10. Sweater Dresses: Sweater dresses combine the comfortableness of a sweater with the chic look of a dress. They are perfect for crispy fall days and cool winter nights. Paired with leggings or tights and cute boots, you could be the talk of the town.