How cute is this asymmetrical skirt from Vogue Patterns! The skirt has classic lines with an updated twist. It would be perfect for business workwear paired with a jacket and pumps. It is equally suitable for a flirty casual outfit paired with a cute top and flats. You can never go wrong sewing a Vogue pattern, they have a long history of crafting interesting designs that will amp up your fashionista collection.
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Updated 12/14/23
The Pattern
Vogue patterns 1638 skirt is a high waisted, asymmetrical, and pretty sewing pattern. The pattern is currently out of stock. If you didn’t grab a copy of this sewing pattern when it cam out, you can still find a copy of two at Minerva — Vogue Pattern V1638. You may also find it at a few shops in Etsy.
The pattern comes in sizes 6-14. It is made for a woven, so if you use a knit you can size down a bit.
TEST GARMENT
I started with a cotton muslin test garment. Vogue pattern 1638 is designed for a woven fabric and I wanted to test the fit and construction. If you don’t have a high waisted garment in your sewing pattern stash, I would make a test run. The look of the garment is super flattering but the fit needs to be correct.
PATTERN LAYOUT
Vogue pattern 1638 consists of five main pieces and each one is cut as a single piece. It is important to remember to cut them face up on the right side of the fabric so they are all facing the correct way. For example, there is a left back and a right back piece and they are NOT interchangeable. If you flip them, you will have the wrong side of your fabric facing outward. That can be problematic with some fabrics!
CONSTRUCTION
The darts are sewn a little differently than a traditional dart because the last few inches end is straight instead of continuing the angle due to the high waisted design.
The slicing of the front and back to add in the flounce is a little daunting. If you mark well and follow the lines, the sewing pattern lines up beautifully. Be sure to add the remnant square for stability at the apex of the cut, it will give your garment extra longevity.
HEMMING
Use fine pins and a good press to create double fold hemming seams to give your garment a high-end retail look. Visit my tutorial on sewing designs with baby hems in my How To Sew Slippery Fabrics Tips and Tricks.
THE FABRIC
This Vogue pattern calls for wool and crepe wovens, which are lovely. For this version I chose this scuba crepe knit from Minerva. It was easy to work with, bouncy with a good stretch. The overall floral pattern is vibrant with the red roses on the black background. Unfortunately it is now unavailable.
ANOTHER FABRIC OPTION
This Scuba Crepe Stretch Knit would be fabulous for this skirt. It is currently available and would be charming for a casual skirt option. The fabric has the same qualities as the one I used therefore, the finished garment styles will have the same feel and drape.
When you are creating a garment with Vogue sewing patterns, you can be confident the pattern is well drafted and your finished garment will become a standout piece in your wardrobe collection.
Fold Over Elastic Waistband
Since I used a knit, I sized down on the pattern. Initially, I put in an invisible zipper, but I found it wasn’t necessary since the fabric has a lovely stretch. I removed the zipper and added fold over elastic as the waistband instead of a facing.
This made the pattern construction super easy. If you have never tackled a zipper, then using a stretch fabric with fold over elastic might be the way to add this look to your personal collection without the hassle of installing a zipper.
The Skirt
The finished garment looks and feels great. As much as this pattern would be lovely in a woven, that is a little too “Power Suit” for my lifestyle. The scuba fabric makes the skirt comfy and it looks great. I can be dressed up with a jacket and heels or I can be super casual with sandals and a T-shirt.
Vogue Patterns
I hope you enjoy this trip through my Vogue Patterns 1638 skirt. The sewing pattern is a quick make. You will love the asymmetrical design, the results will satisfy the fashionista for every shape and size. This review can also be seen on Minerva.com
Happy Sewing!
Sandi
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PS
Here is what I know about fashion. Everyone’s taste is different. The opinions expressed here are mine alone. I’m just a girl who loves to sew. Here is a list of some of my favorite tools, techniques, and sources.
21 Tips To Take Your DIY Garment From Homemade To High End
Barrett’s Custom Design YouTube Sew Alongs, tips, tricks, and a few laughs
Sewing With Sandi Etsy Shop filled with patterns and other sewing items
Rowenta Steam Iron for the best finishes
This review can be seen on Minerva.com