DIY: Make a Military Skirt from a Trench Coat
When spring finally arrives (any day now, we hope!), it’s the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe. Why not breathe new life into an old trench coat and turn it into a stylish military skirt, inspired by designer pieces like this chic Kenzo version?
Say goodbye to gloomy rain and hello to sunshine—and a brand-new DIY fashion statement!
You’ll Need:
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1 trench coat
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3/4” (2 cm) wide elastic
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Safety pin
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Hand sewing needle
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Scissors
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Pins
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Thread
Instructions:
Step 1: Cut the Coat
Cut off the bottom of the trench coat, leaving about 3” (7.5 cm) above the waistline. This extra fabric will form the casing for your waistband elastic.
Tip: Save the top of the trench coat—you’ll use it in a fun future project!
Step 2: Press the Seam Allowance
Fold under a 5/8” (1.5 cm) seam allowance on the top edge of the 3” extended fabric piece and press it flat.
Step 3: Create the Elastic Casing
Fold the extended piece in half lengthwise and press again. Edgestitch along the fold, making sure to leave a small opening at one end to insert the elastic later.
Step 4: Measure and Cut the Elastic
Measure your waist and add 1/2” (1.3 cm) to get the correct length. Cut the elastic accordingly.
Step 5: Insert the Elastic
Attach a safety pin to one end of the elastic and use it to feed the elastic through the casing via the small opening.
Step 6: Secure the Elastic
Overlap the ends of the elastic and sew them together using a zigzag stitch. Stitch back and forth a few times to make sure it’s secure.
Step 7: Close the Opening
Use a hand sewing needle and thread to close the small opening in the waistband casing with a neat stitch.
And that’s it—you’ve just created a fabulous military skirt from a trench coat! Pair it with a tucked-in tee or a structured blouse and you’re ready to welcome spring in style. 🌸
Let me know if you’d like this formatted into a printable or social media version too!