Timeless Striped Pencil Skirt

 

Front single welt pockets can be sewn by beginners

 I have been teaching how to construct a lined pencil skirt with front single welt pockets, center back pleating, a traditional all purpose zipper, and fitted waistband.  The tutorial appears in the upper right corner of the Home page.  I stitched a khaki skirt for the tutorial which is a top color trend for fall 2013 women's wear (technically the color is called Deep Lichen Green).  The sample at right is black and white stripes which is a color combination that never goes out of style.  Indeed a pencil skirt is never out of style.  Please visit the tutorial if you would like to see how the skirt is constructed.
  
If you would like to see color trends for fall, please visit http://www.fashionising.com/trends/b--fall-colors-2013-winter-colors-27647.html.  Spring color trends can be viewed at http://www.pantone.com/pages/fcr.aspx?pg=21005.

pleats add visual interest and increase leg mobility

 Students will next be working on a traditional fitted shirt with collar, neckband, center front bands, buttonholes and buttons, long set in sleeves, cuffs and shirttail hem.  The tutorial with detailed construction steps appears at the upper right corner of the Home page as well.  Key to success is redrafting the collar and neckband pattern pieces to move seams from center front to the middle.  This removes bulky seams and increases stitching accuracy.  Once you learn the techniques, they can be applied to jackets and dresses as well.