Easy DIY Layer Skirt Patterns

Make a fun and flouncy skirt with one of these layer skirt sewing patterns; they are simple & speedy!

A purple elastic waist layer skirt being modeled by white flowers.

Well, hello, sunshine! It’s the perfect time of year for a few fun closet additions! So, c’mon, let’s get girlie-twirly with these DIY Layer Skirt patterns.

Layer or tiered skirts are popular, especially for warm weather. The look is light and tropical, with room to breathe and move.

Find more sewing project ideas here

Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe

I am very much a neutral wardrobe girl, but I love adding pops of color with bold skirts, pants, or accessories!

A capsule wardrobe is about curating a limited selection of interchangeable clothing items that work together.

These are usually classic pieces made up of neutral shades. This allows you to create many outfits with a small number of clothing pieces.

Learn how to put together an effortless and elevated spring capsule wardrobe.

For more casual and upgraded picks for a stylish summer, see these ideas on fashion over 50.

Elasticated Waist Skirts

A skirt is an excellent and easy piece to create for your existing wardrobe! It’s fast and fun to add color or pattern emphasis this way.

Layered skirts are delightful, but an elastic-waist layer skirt is even better. Throw it on quickly, and your outfit is nearly complete.

Check out the elastic layered skirt patterns below.

New Look 6953 elastic waist layer skirt being modeled in front of a beach.

Easy to Sew Patterns

First, decide on a pattern design. Select one that works best for your shape and size. Then, highlight your best features and minimize your least favorite. 

Consider a design with one ruffle layer or multiple. You can also make the tiers tiny, short, or very long.

I think sewing a skirt is the best way to begin sewing clothes! The fit is usually very forgiving. You can choose skirt styles with minimal detail. Most have lots of straight stitching yet still pack a good-looking punch.

Choose sewing patterns labeled “Easy to Sew,” “1-hour,” or “Learn to Sew,” etc. Also, consider a style without pockets or zippers. 

A purple elastic waist layer skirt being modeled near a beach.


I used New Look sewing pattern 6953 for mine, but I have additional ideas for you below. There are buying sources in the text under each photo. (affiliate links)

New Look Pattern 6287
Simplicity Pattern 1110
New Look Pattern 6106
McCall’s Pattern M7905
Simplicity Pattern 8106
New Look Pattern 6258

Free Skirt Patterns

See my other skirt posts for two free skirt patterns. Click the photos below for more info.

Sewing Supplies

Here are the materials you’ll need for the project. Supply needs will vary slightly based on the sewing pattern you select.

Sewing supplies for a flounce elastic waist New Look sewing pattern.

(Affiliate links are underlined)
Sewing Pattern mine is New Look 6953
Matching Thread
Tape Measure
Elastic for Waist
Sewing Straight Pins
Fabric for Skirt
Rotary Cutter
HERE
Sewing Scissors HERE
Sewing Board HERE
or
Safe Cutting Surface HERE
Paper Scissors not pictured
Sewing Machine not pictured
Notions per pattern

New Look 6953 elastic waist layer skirt being modeled with a beach in the background.

Skirt Fabrics

There are so many amazing fabric options for long DIY skirts! Maxi skirt fabric should be comfy and lightweight. 

Cotton or jersey fabrics are an excellent choice. Choose fabrics that drape well, like cotton gauze, chiffon, or taffeta, for a flowy and elegant look. 

Remember that you may need to line sheer fabrics or wear a slip so they are not see-through. 

Other skirt fabrics to consider:
Challis
Chambray 
Charmeuse
Cotton Lawn or Voile
Cotton gauze
Crepe de chine
Crepe back satin
Double georgette
Lightweight denim
Lightweight Linen
Poplin
Polycotton
Stretch Cotton
Silk Georgette
Viscose/ Rayon
Wool jersey


For my maxi skirt, I chose a lightweight woven fabric. I must admit I took a chance to use this type of fabric. However, I loved the color and how it turned out! Sometimes it is worth experimenting with new materials.

New Look 6953 elastic waist layer skirt being modeled in front of flowers.

How to Wear Long Skirts

Consider these styling ideas when wearing maxi skirts.

First, try pairing a slightly more fitted top with your flowy skirt.

Fitted or tighter tops look better with layered skirts with tiers of fabric. It balances the silhouette and will be more flattering to most figures.

Wear your skirt with a halter, one-shoulder, or off-the-shoulder top.

All three blouse styles are perfect for warm weather and would create a chic outfit.

Experiment with fabrics, colors, and pattern combinations to showcase your personality.

Coordinate or contrast colors, prints, and patterns to create a stylish outfit that allows you to express yourself. 

Select solid colors from head to toe. 

Choose a minimalist look with monochromatic colors that are refined and elegant. 

Dress up your look with a heel.

Wear your skirt with your favorite wedge, chunky sandals, boots, or elegant heels to enhance your outfit for a special occasion.

Go for comfort with flats.

Instead, consider flat sandals for a carefree, Palm Beach, or boho style.

Play it cool and casual with sneakers.

Comfortable and stylish, tennis shoes can transform a dressier skirt option into a playful and informal look. Add a white t-shirt or jean shirt, and you instantly have an on-trend outfit.

Complete the look with a jacket.

For example, try a denim or linen jacket for a casual look, day or night. Or sport a leather jacket to create an edgier look.

Finish with a cozy sweater.

Pair your maxi skirt with a fitted pullover sweater knit or a cardigan. Tuck it in, or cinch your waist with a cute belt.

See this post for more great examples of how to wear a maxi skirt.

Okay, now it’s your turn! Let me know when you make a new layer skirt this season in the comments below. 😃

Thanks for stopping by!
xo,
Cindy

Subscribe to Bloom’s Newsletter

Sign up here for the Bloom newsletter. Select only the topics that interest you! Creative projects include crafts, sewing, recipes, hosting/entertaining, home/garden, and gnome-only emails.

The newsletters are 100% free. If you want to add, delete your topics, or unsubscribe, click “manage subscriptions” at the bottom of any email newsletters you receive. 

Explore More

SHOP to purchase patterns
RECIPES for more recipes
INSPIRATION for creative project ideas
START HERE for blog home

The products with underlined text may contain affiliate links. When you buy through affiliate links on my site, I may earn a commission, but at no cost to you. See the shop page for more information.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *