Burda 1-2018-121 (polka dots skirt)

This pattern has been in queue ever since I saw Dressmaking Debacles' version. It's a high-waist skirt with pockets and pleats. LOVE!

(shirt:  Ottobre 5-2012-7) 

It's a lot of skirt for my 5-foot frame, though it is similarly shaped to my much-loved McCall's 7906.

I cut size 44, made 3/4" full seat adjustment, and subtracted 2" in length overall. I added 1" seam allowances for fit and needed it. I sewed 1.25" hem; rarely do I add a hem allowance to Burda bottoms because they're often already long enough. 

In Dressmaking Debacles' review of the pattern, she wrote:

"I used a 9" invisible zipper and made a facing instead of lining it. Once the pleats and darts were sewn, I traced the waistline onto tracing paper and then marked 2 1/4" from that line. I could have made the facing a little deeper." 

This was very helpful and a great tip! Following her suggestions, I used a 7" invisible zipper and a 3"-deep facing.

 

I was going to line it, but didn't feel like fussing with the rayon Bemberg. I also didn't feel like sewing all of those pleats or easing the waistline to fit. The fabric is only slightly see-through, so if needed I'll wear a slip.

Speaking of see-through fabric... To mark the pleats, I used yellow wax tracing paper. 

Yikes. It's very visible from the outside, though it doesn't appear to be too bad in this picture. I don't sew many white or light-colored garments for this very reason. I need to find another way to mark important features. Anyone try the Frixion pens?

 

I bought the fabric from my favorite local non-profit scrap store. When I grabbed it, I didn't have a pattern or garment in mind. But when I started sewing this blue/white/red mini wardrobe, I knew immediately that I wanted to make this skirt.

I really like this outfit! I have some red wedges and small red shoulder bag that will go perfectly. 

I finished two more items from the mini wardrobe and will post a full review next.

L