Ok, I may be getting out of control with these Kelly Skirt variations, but I can’t help it – it is a super easy and fun pattern to change up! And this is my favorite variation so far (ok, I say that every time. But I swear this one is). It is definitely the most fun to walk in – it flowed and moved so amazingly. I felt like a supermodel! Kinda :)
Read on to see how to do this yourself, and check out my blog HollyDolly to see more of my outfit!
[sorry about the wrinkly paper. These patterns have been folded, stepped on, and rolled over more times than I can count, now ]
1. To lengthen your skirt to maxi length, simply add on your desired amount to the pattern pieces. Measure from your waist to the floor, and then measure the length of the pattern pieces. Add the difference (plus hem allowance) to complete the length.
2. To create side slits, only sew your side seams to your knee area (on your pattern piece, this will be about where the original pattern meets your add-on length). Clean finish your seams, and topstitch around the slits.
3. You can also create a front slit as well, by only adding buttons to the knee.
4. I also substituted gathers at the waist, instead of pleats, in this skirt. To do this, simply ignore the pleat markings on the pattern pieces. Sew basting stitches on your front skirt pieces along the top edge between your pocket edge and about 1/2″ before the first placket guideline. Sew basting stitches on your back skirt piece all along the top edge, from side seam to side seam. Pull the threads to create your gathers.
5. Continue as directed by the instruction booklet.
That’s it! Please share if you try it for yourself! We would love to see your version :)
Gorgeous!!
Love it! It looks like it moves so beautifully.
Thank you! It really does! Especially with a little breeze, it makes me feel so glamorous :)
What kind of fabric is that? I love the way its soft but holds it shape!
I honesty don’t know exactly what kind of fabric it is (it’s been sitting in my fabric pile for 3 years. yikes!). But I do know it is silk, and it kind of has the same weight and hand as a lightweight charmeuse.
It’s gorgeous! I love the fabric. Another great idea :)
Thank you, hun!
Love this version Holly! reminds me of a couple of my mum sewing patterns from the 70’s, very cool! I love how you’ve added the side splits too :-)
Thank you! The side slits totally add to the movement of the skirt.