Ruche Skirt with Fishtail

This is an idea from my Sketchbook (visual diary), from at least 3-4 years ago.  I believe I found it in a forecast magazine of that time (Textile View).  The design is elegant but may have some inherent problems to be dealt with in the first toile/prototype.   Your fabric choice will be important as the ruching suggests much of this skirt will be cut on the bias and there may be a little tension between the ruching around the thighs and the flare I have drawn into the hem.  I’m also concerned that the gathered hip yoke could be puffy if not sewn well.  I would probably work with a light-weight, finely woven wool suiting as I know from experience that it behaves well when cut on the bias.

Below is the pattern plan, marking all the relevant adaptations and changes required to achieve this style.  You’ll need to start with a skirt block of your own size.  My Skirt Block is available on the website.

Set out below are the final pattern pieces (not including lining) for this style.  A quick toile in calico will test my skills and hopefully answer my earlier questions.  These Pattern Puzzles are set as inspiring and challenging ideas.  There’re no guarantees they’ll work until you’ve have tested and perfected the pattern.

Keep your eyes peeled for the worksheets I am making from this new idea.  Enjoy 🙂