Neat Pleat

It's been very satisfying to start sewing again, not just to create something new but also because it's a frugal alternative to buying new clothes.

This skirt is a high-waisted pencil skirt with a slight A-line. The front sports an inverted box pleat with a velvet underlay. The velvet is echoed in the faux double bow and band.

The material was originally made for upholstery but it worked perfectly to achieve the design I had in my head. It was stiff enough to keep the ruffled top standing and the pleat neat and crisp. The velvet wasn't quite as generous, but with patience I got it to cooperate.

I am not an avid liner. I have done a couple of projects with a lining but I find it dull because, essentially, you are sewing the same thing twice. I went ahead and made a lining for this skirt due to the rougher upholstery material and I converted! It gives it a more professional look and feels luxurious.