I needed a pencil skirt. A red wool one with an exposed zipper and it needed to be longer than the 1980s minis that seem to be all over the place right now. I wanted it kind of long and a bit frumpy, but actually very cool and naughty, because of the industrial exposed zipper and its tightness. So, that was the deal and I made it last week, and it worked out great.
Here's the sassy back. There were exposed metal zippers at Anthropologie last spring and summer and was anxious to try using one, especially after being obsessed with invisible zippers for so long. I used a method very similar to this one (click on the exposed zipper link) except I included a seam below the zipper so I could make a back vent. The fabric is a lovely red wool from Mill Ends (All wool and lining is 25% off until the end of October and Bolt is having a big sale this weekend, too.) and the skirt pattern was just an altered classic a-line that I have made several times from Wendy's book. She gives dimensions and tips on making the a-line into a pencil skirt. Very simple. This one is lined and I am so happy I spent the extra $$ and used a rayon lining and not a super cheap polyester lining—which feels like plastic wrap to me. I mean, if I'm going to pay the money for really nice wool, why use icky lining against my skin?
This is the type of sewing I love. When I am making tailored clothes it's not super cheap compared to Forever 21 or Target, but I'm comparing it to high-end designer pieces I could never afford in a million years so I feel like I am saving loads of money, if that makes sense and I don't freak out about the baby and child smears that are already on this skirt. I will tell you (in anticipation of questions about it) the blouse I am wearing has that same gathering on the back that I just did that tutorial for (it's from Forever 21, actually) and the tights are from J.Crew (my favorite pair this fall) and the shoes are Miz Mooz. Just in case you are wondering.
Next up I am working a plaid wool dress, which is about 65% done and looking good. Although I realize now it matches our flannel bed sheets almost exactly. At least I am consistent.
