DIY Steampunk/Victorian Skirt

So, I don't know how many of the fans of this blog are also into steampunk, and of those how many like sewing and costuming, but, I saw this pattern for a simple faux-bustled skirt today and pretty much had to share it. My understanding from chatting with an acquaintance who's made it is that it really is as easy as it looks.

I haven't figured out yet how to work my sewing machine with a broken right foot, but as soon as I do (and find just the right fabric) I'd like to give this a try. Why? Well doesn't every girl need a bustled skirt in her wardrobe?

Shut up. Every girl needs that. It's true.

Stop looking at me like that.

Full pattern and instructions from the fabric.com blog can be found here.

Make Do and Mend

During World War II, the British government had a fantastic propaganda campaign going. War rationing hit the UK hard, and new clothes were not easy to come by. We need those nylons for the boys on the front!

Well, nobody's under war rationing right now, but the economy isn't showing many signs of getting better any time soon, and I think it's worth revisiting that old campaign to try and re-learn some of the tricks our grandmothers were using to keep themselves in stylish clothes when money and new fabric were scarce.

Recession Fashion

I think most of the people who read this blog like to shop at thrift stores. Right? Right? I mean, if you don't, why not? They're the best! Seriously, most of my favorite clothes come from the good old Salvation Army up the road.

But I'm also sure that all of us who have braved these temples to unwanted stuff have had the following experience...