When I had an autoimmune flare-up this past fall, I knew I needed to modify my sewing goals for my fall and winter wardrobe capsule. I decided to focus on pieces that would have some versatility in my closet and that I could build on later, whether it was this year or next. As a result, I opted for classic styles and prints/fabrics that would pair well together or with other pieces in my wardrobe. The first item on my list was a simple A-line skirt that I could dress up or down, pair with boots or heels, and wear for years to come.

After coming across this Brooks Brothers skirt, I instantly knew I wanted to recreate it. I have always loved the look of a classic black and white buffalo plaid wool skirt, so when I found a bolt of a similar buffalo check at a local shop (Their website isn’t updated, so it it’s not available online.), I knew it was serendipitous!

After going back and forth and researching skirt patterns, I finally chose Delia Creates’ Pleated Pencil Skirt and made a few modifications to the pattern to get the look I desired. I removed about 5″ in length, which automatically changed the shape a bit. Keep in mind that I’m 5’1″ on a good day, and the skirt is intended to fall below the knee to begin with. (Tall friends, you may not need to remove any inches, but will need to extend the bottom/hem at the sides a bit for an A-line shape.) I also removed the back pleat detail due to the shortened length. Unlike my inspiration skirt, I chose to cut my waistband pieces on the grain to conserve fabric. I like that detail on the inspiration, but I wanted to ensure I would have a suitable remnant to make Lo a matching skirt.

My measurements placed me somewhere between the size 4 and 6, so I decided to make the size 6 due to the thickness of the wool. If I were to make another, I will start with a size 4 because I ended up grading down to the size 4 at the waist and a size 2 through the hip despite the thickness of my fabric. I kept the darts in the front and back the same, and I interfaced both waistband pieces to prevent them from stretching. If you’re an adventurous beginner, Delia provides great illustrations and instructions to walk you through sewing a lining and installing a zipper. As I shared in this Instagram post, I used a purple lining from my stash and hand stitched it to the main skirt at the zipper and hem for a nice, clean finish.
I love this skirt (and this pop-up coffee shop!), and I know it will remain a winter staple in my wardrobe for many years. So, tell me, do you have a tried and true skirt pattern? Do you have a particular item in your wardrobe you love to wear year after year?