Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Maternity Skirt Pattern -- Simplicity 2655



I purchased Simplicity 2655 a few months before the wedding, and was just thinking about trying it out this Spring when I found out I was pregnant. So I put it back in my pattern stash, knowing that I'd only get a month or two of wear out of it before packing it away for the rest of the pregnancy.

But as I started making/modifying clothes for maternity, I realized that this pattern would probably work very well, due to the yoke at the waistline. Sure enough, by just omitting the yoke pieces and replacing them with one of my "camisole maternity bands," it's perfect for maternity.

I was in desperate need of a khaki skirt, so I used view D and omitted the yoke and sash pieces. The pattern goes together very easily (though it uses a lot of fabric!), and I was quite pleased with it.

(These pictures were taken about a month ago, so I've "expanded a bit" since then!)





The knit I used is not super-stretchy, so I ended up adding clear swimwear elastic to the skirt/knit seam, and a casing at the top.

I really wanted to try the adorable pocket from this pattern, but thought it might be too much on the flounced version. So I pulled out some black Tencel that I bought at JoAnn's for $2.50 a yard and made another skirt in view A. This skirt was even easier than the last, since it didn't have flounces.




I used a thrifted black exercise top with plenty of Lycra for the band, and it works beautifully! The hem of the shirt is actually the top of my band (not necessary, since knit doesn't ravel, but it does look nice). The pocket construction is a bit unusual, but not overly complicated. I just love the ties on the pocket! Though I think I might put a few stitches in my knot, since they tend to come undone over time.





I'm officially of fan of this pattern, and hope to use it more in the future -- in both my regular and maternity wardrobes!

13 comments:

  1. I love both of your skirts and your purple top is especially pretty! :)

    I also love the pocket on that skirt. Great jog Shannon and I am really inspired to sew! I am going to make myself a wool modern coat Lord willing soon since its getting chilly and a winter dress. Hopefully. I love your blog and thank you for so much inspiration.

    In Christ,
    Rebecca

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  2. Oh, they both are lovely! :D Great job! :D And you look soo sweet in both photos my dear. :) Glad you were easily able to adapt this pattern to suit your needs.

    I am so happy for you! :D Keeping you and your little one in my prayers! :)

    Blessings!
    ~Rachel!

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  3. Pregnancy becomes you!! :) We're praying for your growing family! :)

    Blessings,
    Luci

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  4. It is so nice to see a picture of you as you grow. I love your skirts. Very creative.
    Blessings,
    Mrs. Hope

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  5. SO beautiful, can I ask what sort of fabric you used for your khaki skirt. it falls so nicely.

    Amy

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  6. Those skirts are lovely, but what really caught my eye was the striped shirt. Did you make it? You must come over soon and show me. :)

    Tiffany

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  7. I do love those pockets. The chocolate skirt is my favorite!

    ps-I sent you an email a couple days ago. I sent it to "maidenoftheking" (ymail) not sure if you are still using that address. And ignore the tip where I tell you to use t-shirts for belly bands... you've already discovered it!

    ~Shannon

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  8. You are a beautiful expectant mother Shannon! How long have you got left? xxx

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  9. Thank you all for your thoughtful and kind comments!

    Amy, the khaki skirt is a 100% cotton WrinkleEase fabric, which I got on clearance when our WalMart stopped carrying fabric. I think they might sell it at JoAnn's, too, but I'm not sure -- I think the drape of the skirt is largely thanks to the pattern! I just love it!

    Tiffany, I already talked with you today :-), but the shirt was a thrift store find.

    Shannon, I do still have that e-mail, but don't check it often -- thanks for the heads up, I'll go and look right now! :-)

    Rachel, we're down to a little less than three months -- so exciting! :-)

    Blessings,
    Shannon

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  10. Lovely job! I especially like the pockets on the black skirt.

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  11. I just finished one of these skirts today. Thanks so much for the heads up on the pattern, it's so lovely and I'm enjoying wearing it very much. I made A in a cream cotton with a green/pink floral. I'm very happy with the way it turned out I hope to make more.
    Amy

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  12. i'M PLANNING TO MAKE MY DAUGHTER IN LAW ONE OF THESE SKIRTS. I have a question. How do you know how wide, and long to make the stretchy material at the top if you don't use the pattern? Do I need her waist measurement?

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  13. Laura, I love the pockets, too! I think that's why I bought the pattern in the first place :-)

    Amy, so glad you like your skirt!

    Modest Maiden, I'm afraid I won't be of much help, since I "winged it"! I used my personal size to figure out how big to make the panel. Sorry I can't be of more help!

    Blessings,
    Shannon

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