Only a couple more posts of last year’s sewing to go!  Phew!  This Style Arc Bonnie woven skirt was an unseasonal sew, made back in October 2020.

I don’t actually wear summer skirts all that often; I tend to wear dresses when the weather warms up, or lightweight pants that keep the sun off my legs.  However, this one fits into the same place in my wardrobe as those summer pants do – it’s fairly long, and has a semi-elastic waist, which keeps it up (my waist to hip ratio is sometimes challenging when dressing my lower half).

Style Arc describe this skirt as follows: This mid length dirndl skirt is made for comfort with a curved front waist band, elastic back and a functional button front. The inseam pockets are optional. The slight gathers at the front create a flattering shape that gives this skirt a fashionable but classical look. This is a versatile skirt that can be worn for any occasion. FABRIC SUGGESTION: Linen, Crepe, Rayon, Cotton.

As is usually the case, there are subtleties in the drafting that give this skirt a pleasing silhouette.  It’s not too full, and although the back gathers are created by the elastic in the back waistband, the front has a small amount of gathering in to a flat fitted waistband.  The buttons down the front are functional; the skirt can be fully opened up, which is nice for better ironing access, but not necessary to get it on.  Actually, I think that the elastic in the back waistband is enough for me to pull this up over my hips.

The pockets are the usual inseam variety.  The elastic is only in the centre back section of the waistband.  I seem to recall that I scratched my head a few times when constructing the waistband, and had to re-read the instructions and take things slowly.  But it all worked out okay in the end!

Working out how best to style this midi-length skirt was a bit of a challenge for me!  I generally don’t tuck things in, so need something that still has proportions that I like when it’s worn over the top of it.  The Style Arc Bonnie woven tops (my version here and the other view that I sewed for Stella here) were designed to go with this, so would work!  I think it’s best with a bit of a crop – this simple tunic scoops up high enough at the centres to please me.

The fabric is rayon that I bought a very long time ago, when GJs discount fabrics was still in Lygon Street.  Although I didn’t wear this much last summer, I think it will stay in my wardrobe for a long time.