A Series of Novelty Gathered Skirts for Autumn

I’ve been longing for a few novelty gathered skirts in my wardrobe for a while.

After looking around my fabric stash for suitable fabrics, I found that I had a few prints that would be just perfect for the fall. 

Series of Gathered Skirts 

To make these gathered skirts I basically cut my fabrics into two long rectangles.

Then I cut a 4-inch waistband the same length as the two rectangles. Using a 5/8 inch seam allowance I attached the waistband folding it over to create a casing. I used 1-inch elastic cut to my waist measurement and ran it through the casing to create the gathered skirt. 

I also added side seam pockets and used a 1-1/4 inch hem.

For all three skirts, I used a cotton fabric making the construction was straightforward and pretty easy. 

Bird House Skirt

The first of my three gathered skirts was a lovely print of colorful birdhouses.

While this isn’t exactly what you might say autumn colors I really liked the mix of muted pastels in the print. I also thought the browns and pinks would lend itself to the autumn. 

What’s also nice about this whimsical print is that it really could be worn all year round. 

Festive Pumpkins

The second skirt I made was a perfect autumn skirt who’s print featured an array of pumpkins scattered about a black background. 

Since the print had pumpkins but not jack-o-lanterns I figured this skirt would get far more wear. As it can be worn from October through November. 

While this skirt looks great with black and orange, I prefer wearing it with my marron sweater and tights, for added color. 

Columbus Outfit

The last of the three novelty skirts I made was made with a Chris Columbus day print. This print was commenting the 500 year anniversary of Columbus’ vogue, with the dates 1492 to 1992 on it. 

After making the skirt I had just enough fabric left over to use as the front piece of Butterick 3286. I then used some scrap fabric with the same color tones as the back piece. 

I don’t really mind the mixing of prints since I think it adds interest. At the same time, I found that I usually pair this outfit with my light blue cardigan so the back of the bodice is hardly ever seen.

I really like this outfit and while some people have negative views of Columbus day, it will always mean something for me, since I was born on Columbus day, which at that time was a rotating holiday. 

Layla’s Whale Skirt

After getting done with my skirts I decided to whip up a similar gathered skirt for my niece Layla. 

I had some really cute whale print fabric in my stash that was just enough to make her a skirt. 

I used the same method of creating the elastic waist and then I added a bit of rickrack for some interest at the bottom.

Perfect Autumn Wardrobe

These skirts have been just what I needed in my wardrobe.

They are fun and whimsical yet when paired with a stylish sweater or cardigan totally office appropriate. 

What are your thoughts on novelty print skirts? Do you have any in your wardrobe and when do you wear them?