Materials to Make a Poodle Skirt

Poodle skirts were named for their poodle appliques.

Traditionally paired with a matching scarf and sweater, poodle skirts were a popular fashion in the 1950s. Today, they continue to surface as popular costumes for Halloween, variety shows and dress-up fun for all ages. Because they have very few seams and do not require a hem, they are a great choice for a beginner's sewing project.

Felt

Traditionally, poodle skirts were made of felt. This material does not need to be hemmed, and it is stiff enough to project out and give the circle skirt its shape. The exact amount of material you need depends on the clothing size of the wearer and the width of the material. Refer to your sewing pattern for guidance on the amount of felt you must purchase for your skirt.

Fasteners and Interfacing

You need both a 7-inch zipper and a hook-and-eye closure set to fasten the skirt. Choose a large hook-and-eye set for a smoother connection at the waist band. Look for a zipper that closely matches the color of your skirt material, so that it will not show. You also need interfacing for the waistband--purchase one package of 1 1/4-inch interfacing.

Decorations

The main decoration on a poodle skirt is, of course, the poodle. You can make your own poodle out of pom poms and felt, or you can buy a poodle applique. For variety, swap the poodle for a Scotty dog cut from patterned fabric or a record cut from black felt. Whatever application you chose, affix it to the lower left side of the skirt. Create a leash for the dog by looping a 3/8-inch satin ribbon in the color of your choice across the skirt from the upper right side to the dog in the lower left. Apply rhinestones across the dog's neck with craft glue to form a collar.

Petticoat

Poodle skirts traditionally rest over a petticoat or cancan, an underskirt made of crinoline netting. Satin or broadcloth comprise the basic slip, with ruffled layers of the netting affixed to it to make the skirt stand out. Run a wide length of elastic through a casing at the waist for the waistband.

References

• Butterick Patterns: Misses Costumes
• McCall's: Pull-On Skirt and Petticoat