Summer Crop Top Skirt Set

When I first saw this rayon knit from BohoFabrics, I thought I would make the simple tank dress.  But when I got it in my hands, it was so soft and flowy that I decided to make a maxi skirt set instead.  The problem?  I only ordered two yards so there just wasn't enough to do what I wanted.  I had to get creative to somehow squeeze an entire outfit out of 2 yards of fabric.

I started with the skirt since it was going to utilize the majority of the fabric. I based my design on Simplicity pattern S1322, View D.  This faux-wrap maxi skirt would require the full 2 yards, so that wasn’t going to work. Luckily, this pattern comes in 3 different lengths so the pieces are already marked in a way that makes it amenable for color blocking.  This allowed me to use just 1.5 yards of my main fabric.  For the bottom panel of the skirt, I used a white knit lining that was a similar weight to the rayon knit.  

I also eliminated the zipper and made an elasticized waistband instead. 

For the crop top, I used the bodice of classic Mccall’s jumpsuit pattern M6083 and added a band/tie to the bottom hem.  I made the ties long enough to wrap around 1.5 times.  I would have made them longer but there was just not enough fabric.  I also cut a u-shape into the back.  

I love a design challenge and I am really happy with how this project came out. This fabric would be great for loungwear, sleepwear and flowy maxi dresses. The next time around, I’m going to actually order enough fabric and add sleeves. LOL!