How to make a pareo skirt

Pareo s are versatile and fashionable garments that can be worn in a variety of ways. Whether you’re heading to the beach, lounging by the pool, or simply looking for a comfortable and stylish outfit, a skirt is the perfect choice. The best part? You can easily make one yourself! In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of making your own pareo skirt.

Materials Needed:
– 2 yards of lightweight, flowy fabric (such as chiffon, silk, or rayon)
– Sewing machine
– Thread
– Measuring tape
– Scissors

Step 1: Choose Your Fabric
Select a fabric that feels soft against your skin and has a beautiful drape. Chiffon, silk, and rayon fabrics are excellent choices as they provide the necessary flow for the skirt.

Step 2: Measure and Cut
Measure your waist and add a few inches to allow for gathering or tying. This will help determine the length of the fabric needed. For a basic pareo skirt, 2 yards of fabric should be sufficient.

Once you have your measurements, cut the fabric to the desired length. A typical pareo skirt usually falls somewhere between mid-thigh and ankle length, depending on personal preference.

Step 3: Hem the Edges
To prevent fraying, it’s essential to hem the raw edges of the fabric. Fold each side of the fabric over by ¼ inch, then fold it over again by another ¼ inch. Pin in place and sew a straight stitch along the folded edge. Repeat this step for both sides of the fabric.

Step 4: Create the Waistband
Fold the top edge of the fabric (lengthwise) down by about 1 inch. Pin this fold in place and sew along the edge, leaving a small opening to insert the waist tie later.

Step 5: Attach the Ties
Cut two long strips of fabric, each measuring about 1- 1.5 inches wide and 36-40 inches long. Fold each strip in half lengthwise and sew along the open side, leaving the ends open. Turn the strip inside out to create a tube, and press it flat.

Insert one end of each tie into the opening of the waistband created in step 4. Sew the waistband shut, ensuring that the ties are secured in place. Now, you have your waistband with attached ties.

Step 6: Finishing Touches
To enhance the aesthetics of your pareo skirt, consider adding embellishments like pom-pom trim, lace, or tassels along the hemline. Simply sew them on using a straight stitch or hand stitching.

Step 7: Styling Ideas
Now that you have completed your pareo skirt, let’s talk about the different ways you can wear it. The most common style is to wrap the skirt around your waist, tying the ties at the front or side. However, you can also transform it into a strapless by tying the waistband around your chest. For a beach cover-up, wear it as a halter neck by tying the ties around your neck.

Experiment with different tying techniques, such as crisscrossing at the front or securing the ties at the back, to create unique looks.

In summary, making a pareo skirt is a fun and creative project that allows you to customize a versatile garment to suit your style. With only a few materials and simple sewing techniques, you can create a beautiful pareo skirt that will elevate your summer wardrobe. So, grab your sewing machine and get ready to craft a fabulous piece that will make a statement wherever you go!