5 Different Styles of Skirts
Skirts are a great way to show off your legs without being too revealing. They can be worn with a variety of different tops to create unique looks.
Shoppers with deep pockets might gravitate to fresh-off-the-runway looks like a Celine black-and-white above-the-knee skirt with knife pleats or a Mary Katrantzou garden-print mini, but there are wallet-friendly alternatives as well.
Gathered Skirts
A gathered skirt is an easy sewing project that can be made in any size. Its unique construction gives it a whimsical and romantic feel that makes it a beautiful choice for a summer skirt.
To make a gathered skirt, begin by measuring your waist and adding 2 inches for seam allowance. You will also need to decide Skirts on the desired length of your skirt. A longer skirt is ideal for formal occasions, while a shorter skirt is appropriate for everyday wear.
Next, gather the fabric along the waistline using an elastic or a stretchy material such as spandex. Ensure that the gathers are evenly distributed. This will help the skirt look more professional and give you a more flattering silhouette.
To finish the skirt, pin a pocket to one side of the waistband and sew. You can use a basic pocket pattern or make your own. The pocket should be positioned so that the pressed edge is in line with the zipper teeth.
A-Line Skirts
A-line skirts are a classic wardrobe choice. Also known as pear-shaped skirts, they fit tight around the waist then flare out towards the hem to look like the letter “A.” A-line styles are available in many lengths from dresses that end just above the knee to wedding gowns trailing across flooring, so there’s something to suit any occasion!
A-line style skirts are flattering on both curvy and straight figured women. The wide hem creates an elongated silhouette for those with pear shapes while softening full figures and adding hip curves to straight-shaped girls. They’re also easy to style, especially when worn with a simple shirt or sweater for work.
Petite frames can be overwhelmed by long, full A-line skirts. To avoid being dwarfed, try a mini version that comes to mid-thigh. A-line skirts are also popular in midi length as they’re the perfect blend of fitted and flowy.
Pleated Skirts
Pleated skirts are a closet essential because they can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Whether you prefer to go for a maxi pleated skirt or a midi pleated skirt, the right style can add an air of sophistication to any outfit.
There are many different types of pleated skirts, from the accordion pleats of a tennis skirt to the knife pleats of a pencil pleat skirt. The size of the pleats will also determine how full a skirt is.
You can find pleated skirts in every color of the rainbow, so finding one to match your wardrobe is easy. Try pairing a navy pleated skirt with a navy blouse to create a monochromatic look, or pick Skirts a brightly colored skirt and pair it with a white top for a more casual outfit.
Once you’ve ironed your pleated skirt, it’s important to hang it carefully so it retains its shape. Don’t fold it, and be sure to use a hanger with clips that won’t dent the fabric. Avoid pins, as they can damage the material.
Circle Skirts
The most dramatic of all skirts, the circle is a full and flowing garment that looks beautiful when dancers whirl in it. It’s easy to make and can be adapted for different styles. The basic pattern is a circular shape, with the amount of flow determined by modifying the waist formula. Some variations use multiple circles, while others are made from a single one.
To create a circle skirt, first determine the circumference of your waist using a tape measure and the mathematical formula (diameter = PI/3.14). Next, draw a half-circle on paper with the waist measurement as the center point. You can cut this straight across or, if your fabric is wide enough, put it on the fold and cut a quarter-circle.
If you decide to cut it on the fold, be sure that both edges have seam allowances. You’ll also need to hem it, and stitching on a curved edge can be tricky. But with a little patience, you can have a lovely handkerchief-style circle skirt for spring or summer. It goes great with a fitted top and sandals, or you can wear it with tights and a sweater for fall or winter.
Skirts with Zippers
Zippers add a stylish and functional design to skirts. Whether you’re shopping for a zippered jean skirt to wear with a leather jacket or a faux fur skirt that goes well with heels, there are plenty of options to choose from. However, you should be careful not to overload an outfit with tons of zippers as they can look too busy and distract from the overall style of your clothes.
The most common zipper type found on a skirt is a back zipper that’s hidden in the seam. Other styles of zippers include front closures that are similar to fly openings on trousers and button plackets on men’s shirts (common on jean skirts), or lacing that resembles a shirt collar. Some skirts may have an elastic waistband that can be slipped on without the need for a zipper.
Many people are intimidated by sewing zippers in their garments, but with the right tools and a simple tutorial, it’s actually quite easy. You’ll be able to sew in a concealed zipper in no time at all.
