Definition of a Broomstick Skirt

A broomstick skirt is a long skirt, pleated from the waist to the hem. A large amount of fabric is required to create a broomstick skirt because of all of the pleating, which is normally done by using starching and ironing. However, the name derives from the original method of creation, which involved wrapping the wet fabric around a broomstick.

Function

Broomstick skirts have been worn as part of cowgirl outfits, as a staple of "hippie" costumes," and as part of stylish summer outfits featured in fashion magazines and worn by celebrities

Types

Some broomstick skirts are made from lightweight fabrics that have been twisted when wet, left to dry and then unwrapped for a pleated look. Others are actually wound around a broomstick for more of a pleated appearance. A third type is a skirt that has been sewn with traditional pleating.

Benefits

Broomstick skirts require no ironing; they are simply washed and hung up to dry.

Features

Made from lightweight fabrics, broomstick skirts, which are normally ankle length, are a cool alternative to pants in the summer. They can also be worn for a variety of occasions by simply adding different tops: a sheer blouse makes a dressy outfit while a tank top creates an outfit for the beach.

History

It is thought that the first broomstick skirts were created by Navajo women.

Resources

• Source for comparing prices of broomstick skirts