1950s Blue Twill Skirt

Supposedly a quick project, this skirt took me 3 weeks to complete. Not because it was difficult, but because it was hard to find time to sew. But at last it is finished, and in a pretty shade of solid blue is a great addition to my wardrobe, which badly needs basics.

I was going for a very accurate look this time, so my blouse is a modern thrift-store find, and my shoes are 1940s. You can call it vintage-inspired if you like.

 

The skirt is from a 1950s pattern but I think has classic elements that make it suitable for other eras as well. It looks kind of 1930s to me, actually. Maybe that's because so many skirts in the 1930s had those low pleats at the hem. This one has 2 in the front and 1 in the back, and I like the way they flow when I'm walking.

 

This was a new territory for me. Fitted skirts are something to be cautious with, but I figured I could always not topstitch the pleats if needed. The pleats are inserted all the way down, and top stitched. I stopped the top stitching right above the knee, and love how the pleats give it extra fullness so that it is still modest when I sit down.

 

It is too fitted around the hips, I think, so I'll wear it with tops that come down over the waist - and next time take a pleat in the pattern pieces at the hips to adjust the flare a little.

 

Otherwise it's fairly basic...I did French seams everywhere except the zipper seam. The fabric - now that is a different story! I got this length of twill and it was soft, and a great shade of blue. I washed it - and it came out as stiff as cardboard. I folded it up and put it away, trying to figure out what to do with it. Some time later I pulled it out again, thinking it would be a great fabric for a skirt (one of the fabric suggestions on this pattern is actually twill) - and it was soft again! So I happily made this skirt, only to have it dry on a hanger after wearing and laundering it for the first time...and it was stiff as cardboard again. Ironing softened it up, but it's quite weird, and the iron leaves marks, so I'm sure it will be only for everyday wear. But a good trial version of this pattern just the same. :-)

 

Once again I was reminded of how easy skirts are, compared to dresses or even blouses. No sleeves, facings, collars, etc. Even ones like this, with a little more involved, are quick and comparatively simple. A nice way to feel like you got a lot accomplished in a little time!

Comments

[Esther]

What a lovely skirt, and a great addition to your wardrobe! The style is very pretty on you, and definitely has great details that can be stretched for several different eras. Lovely!!

P.S. Your sandals are really cute! Where did you get them?

[Kristen Stoltzfus Clay]

Thanks for stopping by, Esther! The sandals I think I purchased a while ago on Etsy. They are vintage 1940s. I like them too - that simply is the greatest era for shoe fashion! :-)