Sewing in 2014: McCall's M5523

As part of my Wardrobe Architect exercises, I have identified that I do not like super slim pencil skirts.  I also tend to not tuck blouses into pencil or straight skirts because I feel like it is not the most flattering look for me.  My other gripe with straight skirts purchased off-the-rack is that the waist-to-hip ratio is never correct.  My waist-to-hip ratio is 10 inches; I find that most skirts are cut straighter than that, so a skirt that fits at the hip is too big at my natural waist.

Enter McCall's M5523.

I bought the pattern because I loved the flippy look of View A.  I chose a lovely dusty green herringbone rayon from Vogue Fabrics.  In hindsight, I might not choose a rayon for a skirt again as it does wrinkle with wear and sitting throughout the day.  But the wrinkles are easily pressed out between trips to the dry cleaner.

I also bought the sage Ambiance rayon lining from Vogue and used it to underline the skirt.  This is my preferred technique for lining skirts and trousers.  Sewing the lining into the garment gives stability and allows for a razor-sharp crease to be pressed into trousers.

Here is a view of the back.

I expect that I will be making this pattern again.  It was very easy to make and I finished it completely in a day.  The only pattern adjustments I made were to seam up the front panel seams very slightly below the waist.

A closeup of the flippy part

I am really thrilled with this skirt! The fit is wonderful.  The waist sits exactly where I want it and I can tuck a blouse into it without it looking unflattering.  It goes with several garments already in my closet, including this jacket I made last year.

So, how does this garment fit in with my Wardrobe Architect plans?  Well, I think my Core Style words of Elegant, Soft, and Shapely definitely apply.  In the right combination, the dusty green will look Shimmering and the style Vintage.  The shape of the skirt is straight and timeless.  Furthermore, the color will work like a neutral with other items.  Overall, I think this skirt will see a lot of use.  And, I definitely will be making this pattern again, possibly using some of the different Views.