The “Asymmetrical Love” Skirt
The Facts
- Fabric: 2 yards of plaid acrylic/wool blend from Mena
- Pattern: Simplicity 4966
- Year: 2004
- Notions: 7” zipper, hook & eye, 4 packages bias binding (all stash)
- Time to complete: 1-2 hours for basic construction, 4-5 hours for fringing
- First worn: Jan 19, 2012 (I worked on this challenge early instead of the MTL challenge)
- Wear again?: I already have about ten times!
- Total price: $18 for fabric (notions were free to me, pattern I’ve had for at least 6 years)
When I bought the gray and red plaid from Mena last August, I knew I wanted to make a skirt and I knew I wanted a fringed edge. I considered making a red dress for this challenge, but the red fabric in my stash is lightweight (not at all appropriate for a Michigan Valentine’s Day) and I did want to make up this skirt in time to wear yet this winter.
I found upon pulling out the pattern that I had previously cut out the pattern pieces (though I never got around to using them for anything) in a size smaller than I really need now. And because this skirt is made from very oddly-shaped pieces, adjusting for size left me scratching my head a bit. So I just winged it, which is standard procedure at this point. Luckily, it all worked.
Everything went together quickly and smoothly and the only time-consuming part of this project was removing the crosswise threads on the fringed pieces. I also bound all the seams to keep them from unraveling.
I
wish the plaid matched better in the front, but it’s not terribly straightforward when pinning the oddly-shaped pieces just where everything will meet up, and the fringe pieces complicate matters further. So it is what it is. The only other complaint I have is that the drape is a little stiff. But perhaps some careful laundering and fabric softener can fix that.
I was the happy recipient of a compliment on this skirt from a stranger within an hour of putting it on. I always see those as a nice confirmation of my pattern and fabric choices. Friends and family always give compliments. But from strangers they are even nicer. :)
These photos were taken in downtown Lansing, Michigan, on the south steps of the Capitol.
It looks lovely on you, warm and snug too.
love it – I’m not surprised a stranger commented, it’s fab
The fringing looks great! Must try that at some point.
It’s really easy–just time-consuming.
looks great – the fringing adds a really interesting design element. Don’t you love a compliment from someone outside of those you know.
Hey stranger, I think this a fabulous unique one of kind skirt. I would wear it in a heartbeat!
:)
Loving the red plaid. The cut is great!
Lansing!! Great to see ‘locals’ on here! :^) The skirt is Lovely ~~ I’m a big fan of red and plaid, so I’d compliment you too. Good Job and glad it worked out.
Thanks everyone!
Plaidtastic!
What a great skirt…. It’s very anthropologie-esque but better since you made it! :)
I think you did such a lovely job. You look fabulous in it!
i love the fringed edges! very cool
I love the fringe! It’s perfect with that fabric – I just adore the cut and style!
I want your skirt! I love plaid on the bias going in different directions. The fringe detail takes it up a notch; I’m very impressed.
Brilliant!! the frayed edge is a fantastic. I love plaid and cut on the bias is even better. Your photos look great.
Thank you all so much for the nice comments!
I adore this! The plaid, the fringe, the asymmetry… they all come together in a perfect winter, boot wearing skirt.