Sewn Mag Feature: Simplicity 8466

Did you pick up the May/June issue of Sewn Magazine? If so, you've already seen this look. If not, shame in you. Just kidding, but definitely check it out Michelle features some amazing sewists in each issue.When I was approached to do a gingham look for the May/June issue I was honored and excited because who wouldn't like to be featured AND I had two gingham pieces in my stash begging to be sewn. I chose this classic black and white colorway I purchased from a local fabric store. I believe it's a cotton or a cotton blend.Simplicity 8466 by Mimi G has been on my to-sew list since it was released so I figured this was a great time to sew it up. I love to play with the grain of stripes and plaids so I decided to cut the front and back yokes. Cutting on the bias isn't always something you can do when the pattern doesn't call for it, because you risk having your garment stretch out especially if that pattern piece will be under stress. I wasn't too worried about the front yoke, but the back yoke concerned me and still does. Hopefully I don't end up with a saggy butt.The cargo pockets are a cool feature I'd never sewn before.  I wonder how many more types there are? So far I've sewn in seam, slant, patch, jean, kangaroo and welt pockets so far. I'd never sewn a button front skirt or a maxi skirt before so those were new too. I believe I've finally come to piece with buttonholes. I still don't love them, but I no longer hate them. My machine still hates them though, so I switch to my older machine anytime I have to do more than one so as not to fight with my daily driver machine. (See all my machines here) It's definitely time for an upgrade!Overall the skirt was straightforward to sew. I don't love the actual act of gathering, but I can't knock the pattern for that and honestly it wasn't a large amount. The pockets were  little fiddle-y but manageable, if they give you an trouble you can always watch Mimi's sewalong for guidance.I only made two small changes besides cutting the yokes on the bias. The first was substituting a skirt hook for top button. I think I'll likely wear this with the sash and my buttons were sort of chunky. I also considered using a contrast button like a bright red or yellow, but decided that would limit my future styling options.Secondly, I cut the back skirt piece on the fold to eliminate the need to pattern match along that seam.  I'm not sure why a back center seam is necessary anyway.Pattern: Simplicity 8466Pattern Description: flattering Misses' skirt and knit top from Mimi G Style! The skirt features cargo pockets and gathers to add volume to the length.Sizing: 6-14,16-24. I sewed an 18Difficulty: 4/intermediateFabric Used: Black and white gingham cotton from Fine Fabrics (atl, ga)Does it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope? YesWere the instructions easy to follow? YesLikes: unique styleDislikes: NonePattern alterations or any design changes made: NoneWould I sew it again? Maybe.Would I recommend it to others? If you need stand out skirt yes.