The handkerchief skirt, popularized in the 1930s, features a zigzag hem and is often made from lighter fabrics like silk and chiffon. The style is versatile and flattering on all body types, and variations include A-line skirts and sleeveless dresses. The skirt can be easily made at home using two large bandanas and elastic.
A handkerchief skirt can refer to a skirt made of handkerchiefs or a skirt with an overlapping zigzag hem. The style became popular in the 1930s largely as an understated way to lengthen skirt hems, which had undergone drastic shortening during the Flapper era. Madeleine Vionnet is widely recognized for bringing the style of the headscarf to the forefront of depression and war era fashion.
The scarf skirt has consistently remained in style and is often seen in dressier styles. When not made from real scarves, the spiky pieces tend to be constructed from lighter fabrics such as silks and chiffons. This gives the skirt a flowing look and makes it a comfortable piece for dressy occasions.
A scarf skirt will generally be knee length to ankle length. The modest length has also helped keep the design stylish because it can be worn in both casual and formal settings. Additionally, the bandana style is flattering on almost all body types, making it easily marketable to many women.
There are a few variations of the traditional bandana skirt. The most commonly seen variation is a simple A-line skirt with attached handkerchief-hem panels at spaced intervals. This style is reserved almost exclusively for dress clothing. Another variation is a sleeveless dress with evenly spaced light hem and hem panels sewn around it.
Other clothing items have also received the handkerchief hem treatment. During the bohemian phase of the 1970s and its revival in the early part of the 21st century, tank tops were commonly made with a handkerchief hem to create a roomy look. Also, camisoles are sometimes created with a single handkerchief stitch, usually in the middle of the garment. Although extremely rare, some pants also come with a bandana-like hem, which is often inspired by so-called harem pants or other belly dance attire.
An easy way to make a homemade bandana skirt is by taking two large bandanas and placing them one on top of the other. The top scarf should be turned 90 degrees, giving the skirt a zigzag hem. Poke a hole in the middle of the two scarves big enough to fit over your hips. Cut a piece of elastic to the length of the waist, minus three inches. Insert the elastic between the two bandanas along the length of the open circle and secure with a sewing machine or with a needle and thread.
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