Walking like an Egyption Mabel

Way back in the Spring when Colette announced they were going to release some knit patterns I was pretty excited. After all I'm an equal opportunity knit/woven pattern hoarder collector.  Weeeeell, you can't please everyone all of the time and the two patterns didn't really "do it for me."  As explained in my Fauxneta post, the dress was something that could easily knock off with my existing pattern collection.  As far as Mabel was concerned I figured the sight of a fitted knit stretched my rear end was something the world should be spared from. Yet here I am wearing a Mabel.......hypocritical much?

So how did this happen?  First I was seduced by fabric, really, really awesome ponte fabric. Secondly when cashing in my Sew Dolly Clackett winnings at Harts and could either pay shipping or throw in a pattern and get free shipping. Hmmmm let me see here, what would anyone do in this situation? Yes, buy another pattern.

So I made version 3 out of my awesome, awesome ponte, put it on and went "Meh."  But why? Like all Colette patterns, Mabel had excellent directions and the drafting was great. I like pencil skirts and knits so all this should add up to another pattern that makes me froth at the mouth.

The only thing I can put my finger on is that the skirt feels like it might fall off at any moment. This has got to be my brain messing with me, cause I have enough ass to keep any kind of fitted skirt in place. My "knit sewing instincts" feel that there's not enough negative ease in the pattern when using the suggested size. On the other hand, I don't want a lot of negative ease in this area of my body. AHHHH my kingdom for a stretch woven!  At least my brain knows how it likes those types of pencil skirts to fit.

Pattern
Colette Mabel I sewed view 3 in a blended size M/L.

Fabrics used
Coda Ponte from Marcy Tilton. (Still in stock)
Rayon Scraps for waistband lining

Pattern changes/alterations
1. Blended the size medium at the waist into the size large for the rest of the skirt.

2. Took in  1/2" at waist on CB skirt seam.

3. Cut down side seams of back waistband to match the ease taken out of the CB seam.

Confessions/Advice
- I didn't read instructions again and assembled the waistband in a completely different method that was not better.

- Seems that with a busy print you can accidentally walk around with your skirt on sideways without noticing.  Even after you take about 30 pictures. Classic Heather.

Husband Comment
"Why aren't you making the shorter version?"

My Final Thoughts
OK, despite my apathetic feelings about this pattern, I feel like it deserves another go. My plans are to trace a smaller size and see if I like that fit better. My brain still thinks that a lot of negative ease around my lower body is a bad idea, too many lumps and bumps around there. I might have to admit that this pattern is not for me and stick to stretch woven skirts.