Pattern Description:
The Biarritz Skort is a free sewing pattern designed to blend the effortless chic of a classic skirt silhouette (viewed from the front) with the liberating comfort and freedom of shorts (viewed from the back).
This versatile garment features a skirt-like overlay, a decorative heavy-duty snap, and a sleek metal zipper nestled discreetly at the side seam.
Recommended Fabric:
- Denim
- Corduroy
- Cotton twill
Pattern Pieces Required:
The pattern consists of six main pieces that require cutting fabric:
- FRONT SIDE (A): Cut 2 mirrored.
- FRONT CENTER (B): Cut 2 mirrored.
- BACK (C): Cut 2 mirrored.
- FRONT PANEL (D): Cut 1.
- FRONT FACING (E): Cut 1 on FOLD.
- BACK FACING (F): Cut 1 on FOLD.
BODY MEASUREMENTS (Chart 1):
| SIZE | WAIST (Inches) | HIPS (Inches) |
| XS | 23 – 24 | 34 – 35 |
| S | 25 – 26 | 36 – 37 |
| M | 27 – 28 | 38 – 39 |
| L | 29 – 31 | 40 – 42 |
| XL | 32 – 35 | 46 – 46 |
| 2XL | 36 – 39 | 47 – 50 |
| 3XL | 40 – 43 | 51 – 54 |
| 4XL | 44 – 47 | 55 – 58 |
| 5XL | 48 – 52 | 60 – 63 |
APPROXIMATE FINISHED GARMENT MEASUREMENTS (Chart 2):
| SIZE | WAIST (Inches) | HIPS (Inches) |
| XS | 26 | 37 |
| S | 28 | 39 |
| M | 30 | 41 |
| L | 33 | 44 |
| XL | 37 | 48 |
| 2XL | 41 | 52 |
| 3XL | 45 | 56 |
| 4XL | 49 | 60 |
| 5XL | 54 | 65 |
Instructions for Making the Biarritz Skort Pattern:
Cutting the Pattern Pieces
Using the provided pattern pdf, cut the following:
- Front Side (A): Cut 2 mirrored
- Front Center (B): Cut 2 mirrored
- Back (C): Cut 2 mirrored
- Front Panel (D): Cut 1
- Front Facing (E): Cut 1 on fold
- Back Facing (F): Cut 1 on fold
Label each piece to avoid confusion, and mark notches, darts, and zipper placements with tailor’s chalk or washable markers.
Assembling the Shorts
- Step 1: Sew the Front Shorts
- Join the two Front Side (A) pieces to the Front Center (B) pieces along the curved seams.
- Press seams open and finish raw edges with a zigzag or serger stitch.
- Step 2: Sew the Back Shorts
- With right sides together, stitch the Back (C) pieces together at the center back seam.
- Press and finish seams neatly.
- Step 3: Join Front and Back
- Align front and back pieces at the side seams and inseams. Stitch together and finish the edges.
- At this point, you should have a basic pair of shorts as the foundation of the skort.
Constructing the Front Overlay Panel
- Step 1: Hem the Front Panel (D)
- Fold the bottom and side raw edges of the panel under by ¼ inch, press, then fold again by ¼ inch to encase raw edges.
- Stitch close to the fold for a neat hem.
- Step 2: Attach the Overlay
- Position the overlay panel over the front shorts, aligning top edges. Pin securely.
- Baste along the top edge to hold the panel in place until the waistband is attached.
Adding the Zipper
- Insert the metal zipper along the left side seam.
- Use a zipper foot to achieve a close, neat finish.
- Ensure the zipper sits flat and aligns with the top edge of the shorts.
- Test the zipper before proceeding to ensure smooth operation.
Constructing and Attaching the Facings
- Step 1: Prepare Facings
- Apply interfacing to Front Facing (E) and Back Facing (F) to stabilize the waistband.
- Sew the side seams of the facings together, forming a continuous waistband facing.
- Step 2: Attach to Skort
- With right sides together, pin the facing to the top edge of the skort.
- Stitch carefully, then understitch along the facing to keep it from rolling outward.
- Turn facing inside and press for a crisp waistband finish.
Finishing
- Step 1: Install Snap Closure
- Place the decorative heavy-duty snap at the upper corner of the overlay panel.
- This not only secures the flap but also adds a stylish touch to the skort.
- Step 2: Hem the Shorts
- Fold the bottom edges of the shorts under ½ inch, press, then fold again ½ inch.
- Stitch neatly around both legs for a clean finish.
- Step 3: Final Pressing
- Give the entire garment a thorough pressing with steam to sharpen seams and hems.
- Check all raw edges are finished and that the skort feels comfortable to wear.
Fitting and Adjustments
Refer to the Body Measurement Chart and Finished Garment Chart to verify fit. The skort should sit comfortably at the waist and allow free movement at the hips. If adjustments are needed:
- Take in side seams slightly for a snugger waist.
- Let out seam allowances in the hip area for more room.
