Here’s something new and fun: a vintage pleated plaid skirt kit! Yes, this lovely little thing has been in my wool tubs since I inherited all of my Grandma’s Fabric, which means several years. I knew offhand that it was some sort of pre-made kit, but I had never really looked at it. Maybe I was afraid it would be too matronly. But I got a whim the other day and pulled it out to really take a look, and who knew it would be so cute?! Plus, why don’t we have these kits anymore?
The tag said Professionally Pleated Skirts, and it had brief instructions on the back. The length of wool plaid came pleated, with ancient tape holding them in place. The other length of fabric was for a waistband.
Folks, it was even pre-hemmed!
I mean, seriously! I literally stitched up the back seam (matching my plaid lines), inserted a vintage black metal zipper, cut the waistband down to my measurements, interfaced it, attached it, hand-stitched it down on the inside, and attached two hook-and-eyes.
Done.
And it’s Pendleton wool! That’s the super nice, super expensive kind. And it even came with a tag!
First of all, why did it take me so long to stitch this puppy up. Secondly, why don’t they sell kits like this anymore? So fun!
My only small hesitation was…you guessed it, pockets. Do I cut it up both sides, insert pockets, and stitch the sides closed again?
I opted for maintaining the integrity of the design of the skirt: to be simple.
In other words, I didn’t feel like pattern-matching on both seams, plus taking out the lovely hem and re-doing it on both sides, just for the sake of my beloved pockets.
I love it! I gave it a good wash and it turned out so cute. I had this perfect fuchsia sweater that Nicole gave me, and with my cobalt blue heels and belt, and perfectly matching purse!, I felt quite bright and happy for a cold November day.
I even sliced up the extra width from the waistband piece into tiny belt loops.
And this skirt was entirely free. Thanks, Grandma!
