In the 1800’s the word skirt was a slang that was used for women. It is the second oldest clothing known to mankind. Skirts are also worn by men. A long skirt was a sign of wealth, because fabric was so expensive.
The skirt has changed in both shape and length with the fads. In the 16th and 17 the century skirts had padding worn under them around the hips. In the 18th century the size of the skirt was lowered and expanded again in the 19th century with the crinoline then the bustle. The time before 1900 the skirts remained long, but in the 20 the century they have gone up and down. Especially, in the 60’s and now 20ll with the mini skirt being very popular.
Skirts are for curvy figures. The two basic types being the pencil skirt and the swing skirt.
The pencil skirt is a straight neat looking silhouette that enhances your figure. For a older look the skirt should be high waisted and pass the knee. This skirt can restrict movement of person wearing the skirt.
Therefore, it is made with a hidden pleat, pleat in the back or side, or a slit in the back. These skirts are warmer because of less ventilation, and will not blown up when the wind gets high.
The sing skirt is exactly what it says, it swings as you walk. It is very simple to make and became very popular when a poodle picture was added to the skirt. The poodle skirt was made of felt with a poodle cut from another fabric attached to the skirt. These skirts have a band and are long enough to cover the knee.
This is the best remembered skirt from the 50’s. House wives wore the conservative polka-dot or floral print swing skirt. You can make a swing skirt by cutting two half circles. Then go buy some tulle for the petticoat to be worn under the skirt.
Styles come and go. You can choose what is most comfortable for you or what type skirt is best for the occasion. A skirt can be dressed up or down. The fabric can determined if the skirt is casual wear or formal. It can be worn by itself or with a jacket.
Skirted
Skirted
