One of my favourite patterns is the Margo pencil skirt by Seamwork. Now I have to say that the picture of the red version on the website doesn't really do it justice in my opinion and fortunately I didn't let that put me off.
I wanted a comfortable but smart skirt that I could wear in any season that would be flattering and the added bonus is that this is super quick to make. I love the shaped waistband/yoke at the top and the splits at the side which allow you to create that cinched in pencil shape whilst still being able to walk.
It is designed for medium to heavyweight knits with 2 way stretch, such as double knit, ponte, French terry, and sweater knits.
Size Range
Sizing goes from XS to 3XL. This covers
waist sizes from 25 inches (63 cm) to 46 inches (117 cm) and
hip sizes from 35 inches (89 cm) to 58 inches (147 cm).
Size I Made
I made a medium (waist 29-30 1/2 and hip 39 - 40 1/2 inches) and didn't make any modifications to the pattern as it was a simple shape and I figured I could take it in if I needed to.
My Measurements and Body Type
Height: 5'2"
Bust: 36"
Waist: 30"
Hip: 40"
Bra: 32DD
Body type: I am an H shape from the front but I stick out a bit at the front at the boobs and at the back at the bum. I also have a bit of a rounded upper back (from too much time on a computer!)
Adjustments I Made
For the first version I didn't make any adjustments. I made the first version in a Bengaline which wasn't listed as a suggested fabric but worked really well.
The second version I made in a ponte roma and I added a stretch lining by cutting the front and back skirt again in the lining fabric and then hemming it slightly shorter than the main skirt.
I didn't even have to change the finished length as I love the way for me it finishes just on my calf.
Fabric I Used
For the original skirt I used a Bengaline which has quite a firm structure and lots of stretch. It is a black base with a bronze coloured geometric pattern. It is very comfortable to wear and holds it's shape well.
For the second version I used a gorgeous navy Ponte Roma from Sew Wardrobe which is quite soft to the touch but fairly heavy and I lined it with a navy stretch lining. I also added some clear elastic when I was sewing the top edges of the yoke/waist to help it retain its shape.
Pattern Hack
I loved the fit so much that I decided to use this pattern to make a hack version at a mini skirt length that I could wear with tights. I really liked the Seamwork Mabel skirt version 2 with the button placket down the centre.
So I decided to create a similar style using the Margo pattern. I had some of the Bengaline left over so decided that as I already had my money's worth from the first skirt I'd give it a go.
I am delighted with how it turned out. I initially put buttons on it but they seemed to just stick out so I subsequently took them off but I still love the effect of the placket and how the finished length works really well with thick tights.
Construction Process and Instructions
The construction is really straightforward. I was tempted to sew it all on the overlocker but if you are doing the version with the split then you will need to sew the side seams with a zig zag on the sewing machine to allow you to open the seam allowance and turn the edges of the split.
I was delighted that the pattern fit me without any alterations as that is so rare and that definitely speeds up the making process.
There are only a few pieces to cut out so I was able to make a 4th mini version in just an hour and a half including cutting out, finishing and drinking my tea!
My Thoughts About the Pattern
This has become one of my go-to patterns as I like the simplicity of it but I also think it is quite dressy/elegant. The fact it is made from a knit or stretch fabric makes it super comfy and accommodating and it goes together really quickly and easily.
It lends itself to working with the other items in my autumn collection and I have included a couple more in my new year collection that are just in the process of being cut out and assembled.
I would highly recommend giving it a try and it is a great make for beginners who want to get started working with stretch fabrics.
Will I Make it Again?
Yes definitely and having tried one style hack I think I would experiment with more in the future just to add different style lines and details.
Final Assessment
Sizing - 5/5. It offers a reasonable range of sizes and is true to the measurements.
Instructions - 5/5. Detailed instructions of how to assemble the pattern, make adjustments and assemble.
Construction Process - 5/5. Easy to put together. Pattern pieces fit together well and markings are good.
Final Fit - 5/5. Really good fit and I like the shaping
Overall Rating - 5/5!! Love, love, love it!
Over to you!
So let me know in the comments what you think. Has it inspired you to make some of your own? Have you made these already? Do share as I am super inquisitive and love to know what you are up to!
*Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Read full disclaimer here.