I saw a panel skirt in a vintage burlesque video that I would like to make (or have made). It was black with about a two inch ribbon/ waist with two flat black panels, one in front and one in back, just enough to cover the good stuff. I cant remember where I saw the video. Does anyone have any images they can share that show do something like this or can you give me ideas on how to replicate it easily. Would a satin like material work or be to stiff?

Dear Tessa

'Satin' really just means that a fabric has a very shiney finish to it - it can be made of cotton, silk, polyester, acetate, even wool etc, and also comes in lots of different weights : some are heavier, some are lighter, some are stiffer ( duchess satin) and some very drapey ( satin crepe).
All of this is a bit technical, I know. If you want to make something yourself, go to a fabric shop, choose something you like and ask their advice as to whether the fabric is a good weight for a skirt. If you have something made your dressmaker should be able to help you. It may be worth taking some sample swatches to show them.

If the skirt is very straight and slinky you can also get very nice duchess satin ( quite stiff) with a little bit of lycra in, which will help both to give you a little extra help with movement and also help the fabric to crease less.

If you are in or near London and want to have a go at making something yourself, PM me and I'll see if I can give you a few pointers over a cup of tea.

Viva

Hi,

If you haven't got a good haberdashery near you, I can recommend this website, and you can order sample of the fabrics so you can feel the texture etc.

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Miss Pussy Cat