Inspiration...Maxi Skirt

 There is just something about a pencil skirt.  I love pencil skirt and wore them all the time when I was a young professional.  I would love to own this skirt:

This is the Straight Houndstooth Maxi Skirt by Lafayette 148 New York.  Price tag: $698.00.  Details:  center back slit, hem falls below knee, skirt falls straight from hip to hem, invisible back zipper, wool/acrylic/nylon/polyamide, dry clean.

I love the look of this skirt.  I do not love the price or the actual fabric type.  I do not want a dry clean only fabric in a skirt.  This skirt does not look like it has a waistband.  Take a close up look at the skirt at Neiman Marcus.  If I was making this skirt, I would follow the instructions for a narrow waistband here.  Otherwise, be sure to use a petersham ribbon like the one sold at The Sewing Place.  This ribbon is colorfast and 100% rayon. 

Here is a few patterns to consider:

This is New Look 6697. It is pretty close to the inspiration photo with the exception that is actually has a waistband.  Bonus: you get a little crop top pattern.

This is McCall's 8004.  This pattern has three skirt versions.  View C is closest to the inspiration skirt.  This one has pleats instead of darts plus a waistband.  

This is Butterick 6746.  This pattern gives you several variations.  View A or B lengthened and a slit added would be very close to the inspiration skirt.

Houndstooth fabric is fairly easy to find.  Since you are making this, you are not limited to the black and white.  Make it your's.

Happy Stitching!