Sewing: Versatile and Easy Maxi Skirt

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I had just enough fabric left over (You can find this print here! WOOHOO!) from my shifty stripe dress, I decided to make a maxi skirt. It’s a simple gathered, covered elastic waist banded skirt with two seams (one up the side and one for the waist). I lined it, which effectively makes it reversible. I haven’t worn it reversed yet, though.

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I did make a mistake when I sewed it. I sewed it sans slit, thinking the gathers would make the opening at the bottom big enough. Not so!

Since lining it with chiffon, I was effectively wearing an oven on my lower-half. This issue was a simple fix, but it did require unpicking a serged seam (not fun). I figured out an easy and relatively painless way to unpick a serged hem. It took no time at all once I figured this out.

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Turn the seam wrong side out, and orient yourself with the top side (the side that looks like above) and unpick the two (or one if you’ve got a 3-thread surged seam) horizontal threads just about every fourth or fifth stitch. Once you’ve done that on the desired seam, pull at the loops and your seam comes apart flawlessly.

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The slit makes a huge difference in comfort and functionality.

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Outfit details:

  • sunglasses: lulu’s
  • necklace: beehive bazaar (can’t remember vendor’s name)
  • silver bracelet: handmade by my dad
  • bangle: gift from Chris
  • top: thrifted, refashioned
  • skirt: handmade
  • shoes: thrifted
  • sweater: H&M
  • belt: thrifted

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I love the way this skirt moves when I walk. So flowy!

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Because of the simple construction and the elastic waistband, I can hike it all the way up for a bandeau midi-dress. Just add a sweater and belt and I’m good to go.

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The new slit goes a little too high when I wear it as a bandeau, but that’s nothing a little slip wouldn’t fix.

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I’m still so obsessed with this print and the feel of the fabric. I know this maxi skirt will serve me well in the upcoming fall and winter months.

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    1. Kristin H says:

      Love the fabric & the sunglasses. They totally flatter your face! Brilliant idea to line it with chiffon.

    2. Jenny says:

      Cute cute cute!! Love the print! I have been reading you for a while- you’re such a sewing inspiration!

    3. Jeannie D says:

      I love both looks…great job, Melissa!

    4. Heidi says:

      Love it! I want to see it reversed, do the stripes show through the chiffon?
      I just finished whipping up a floral maxi from some a length of polyester knit I found at the thrift store. I can’t wait to try it out as a dress as well!

    5. Kristina A. says:

      Great Post! How innovative and creative !!

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