Get Instant Red-Carpet Style With This DIY Velvet Pencil Skirt

It’s finally awards show season, and this year we’re not only seeing stunning looks from the stars, but also a few powerful protests using fashion. Thank you, Hollywood. <3 One style trend that we’ve seen over and over — and honestly can’t ever get enough of — is velvet. That oh-so soft, luxe material adds just the right amount of elegance to any piece. I headed over to our local fabric store, Britex, and picked up this stretch velvet for $20. With a few measurements, a few stitches and some elastic, I had a custom velvet pencil skirt in no time. Follow along below to create a velvet skirt that you can instantly make your OOTD, ready for the red carpet.

Materials and Tools:

Instructions:

  1. Measure the circumference of your waist, hips and desired length of your skirt. Draw into a skirt diagram for reference.
  2. Fold your fabric in half and then in half again. Pin the fabric in place so you can cut it without it sliding. Measure out the length of your skirt, plus seven inches for the waist band, along the fold of the fabric. Measure 1/4 the measurement of your waist and hips in a perpendicular line from the fold of the fabric. Draw a fluid curved line to connect all measurements.
  3. Cut out your skirt pattern, grab one piece of the skirt and measure and cut a seven-inch slit from the bottom.
  4. Pin the outer edges of the skirt and sew.
  5. Hem the slit and the bottom edge of the skirt.
  6. Cut a piece of elastic that measures one inch less than the circumference of your waist. Sew together to create a band and then slip onto the top of your skirt. Fold the fabric over, pin in place and sew.

Grab a measuring tape and jot down the measurements of your waist, hips and length of your skirt. Draw out a picture of the skirt for reference. Divide your waist and hip measurement by four to obtain the measurement you will use in the following step.

Fold your fabric in half and then in half again — pin in place. Measure out the length of your skirt, adding in an extra seven inches for the waist band. Draw a perpendicular line (from the fold of the fabric) seven inches from the top of your skirt — this will be your waist measurement. About nine inches from your waist measurement, draw another perpendicular line for your hip measurement. At the end of your skirt, draw out another perpendicular line that is the same measurement of your waist. Connect all of these lines with one fluid curve.

Once you’ve cut out your skirt, measure and cut a seven-inch slit on one piece of the velvet.

Cut out your skirt and pin the long edges together. Sew down both sides with a basic stitch.

Hem and sew the slit and bottom edge of the skirt.

Cut a piece of elastic that is your waist measurement minus one inch. Sew together in a band and then slide onto the top of the skirt. Fold the fabric over, pin in place and then sew.

On the backside of the skirt, sew a perpendicular line through the elastic to help it from moving around within the waist band.

And just like that we are ready to hit the town! Pair this velvet skirt with a loose blouse and heels for a fancy look or flannel and white Adidas for a more casual vibe.

FYI — the slit is mucho importante. Without it, you will have trouble walking.

Show us your project by tagging us on Instagram + using hashtag #iamcreative!

DIY Production and Styling: Kelly Bryden
Photography: Kurt Andre

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The absolute last thing I want to do in the summer heat is put pants on, so I'm opting for white midi skirts when I need to look cute and presentable, but still wanna be comfy. It's honestly the easiest outfit combo, too — I just add a top or a tee, throw on some sandals, and voila! I've got a chic look that's breathable and summer-ready. To help you put together your own breezy outfits, I picked out the best white midi skirts, from Bridgerton-esque tiered skirts to essential satin skirts! You're definitely going to want to add these to your cart...

Target

Target Poplin Midi Skirt

I am having a serious obsession with poplin lately, and this Target skirt does it so cute! If you're looking for a summer essential that's adorable but still affordable, then this is it! It's only $30, so I would run to grab it immediately! It even has a matching top too.

Nordstrom

Halogen Midi Skirt

This midi skirt is a bit more elevated, so you can wear it to formal events or dinners this summer — the options are endless! This pick is also on sale, down from $99 to $69, and we love a bargain! I would style this with dainty sandals like above and a silk tank! Trés chic!

Nordstrom

Nordstrom Tiered Maxi Skirt

A tiered maxi skirt is the key to unlocking the boho chic or cottagecore vibe that's so popular this summer! You can wear these with sneakers like above for a more casual look, or just throw on a pair of flip flops for the beach.

(🔥 Hot tip: I like to sometimes wear these as a tube dress to switch it up!)

Abercrombie

Abercrombie Scalloped Straight Skirt

This scalloped, linen midi is super flattering with its straight fit! It's also a very elegant style that I'm super into right now. The bonus? It's actually on sale for $49.99, and it comes in purple and black as well! This one is sure to sell out quickly!

Amazon

Amazon Button Midi Skirt

Amazon offers so many great summer pieces, but for a much more affordable price point than most! The buttoned up style is definitely on trend at the moments, and who can really beat this bargain? They offer this best-seller in multiple styles as well, so you can peruse the site for different options!

Zara

Zara Midi Skirt

This cute skirt is 100% cotton, which we love for breathability! Plus the pleats at the bottom give some extra volume, making this skirt a standout in your closet! This way, you're able to dress it up for the evening and dress it down for the day. Versatility is key for an everyday essential like midi skirts!

Zara

Zara Satin Skirt

Everyone needs at least one midi satin or silk skirt in their wardrobe, and I happen to love this one from Zara! I have it, and genuinely wear it so many different ways and to many different occasions. I love how it can be styled effortlessly with a white tee and sandals like above! And for under $50, it's a great deal to unlock multiple new outfit combinations.

Old Navy

Old Navy Crinkle Maxi Skirt

Another fabulous under $30 option that's on sale at Old Navy! This crinkle skirt will be great to throw on during a hot, summer day to make you look elevated, but still comfortable. I love wearing skirts like this on casual days because I can easily work in them, and then make my way to dinner in the evening right after. Another 10/10 option!

Banana Republic

Banana Republic Smocked Waist

Smocked waist skirts are great because they can be really flattering around the hip and waist area, especially when worn with tanks or crop tops like above. This one is available at Banana Republic Factory, which means it's super discounted from its original price — love! This will be a summer go-to for sure!

Nordstrom

Farm Rio Lace Skirt

Umm, did someone say cottagecorebecause this definitely fits the aesthetic! It looks straight out of Pride and Prejudice with the stunning crochet and lace detailing. Since it's on sale (and Farm Rio hardly ever goes on sale), I think I'm going to have to grab this one myself for the ultimate Mamma Mia summer!

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Fans of Fourth Wing are on pins and needles because Rebecca Yarros just announced she's finished writing the third book in the Empyrean series! It's us, we're fans — along with over half of BookTok.

We can't believe we're getting closer to reading more about Violet Sorrengail's journey, but we know you have a ton of burning questions about the release date for Book No. 3.

We may not have all the answers, but we've done a little digging to share as much as we can because who doesn't want to know what Rebecca Yarros has been up to?

I'm new to the Empyrean series. Are "Fourth Wing" and "Iron Flame" really worth reading?

Amazon

I'm not going to lie to you. The editorial team, including myself, are extremely biased about Fourth Wingand Iron Flame. From my perspective, I think these are great books for anyone who had the pleasure of growing up during the great Harry Potter era and moved on to watchingGame of Thrones and House of Dragons.

Did she announce the name of book no. 3?

Rebecca Yarros/Instagram

YES! Book No. 3 is titled Oynx Storm.

Knowing what we do about the manifestation of Violet's powers, I think this could hint she's going to play an even larger role in the series. According to a fan theory shared on TikTok(via Empyrean Riders), it's believed that Violet and Xaden Riorson are actually gods. Stay with me here.

Empyrean Riders noted that Violet's last name means heavenly and that she's able to control time thanks to her connection to the young dragon Andarna (I love her so much!). That sounds pretty god-like to me.

And when asked which two Taylor Swift songs describe Onyx Storm, Rebecca Yarros chose "Who's Afraid of Little Old Me?" from The Tortured Poets Department and "So It Goes..." from Reputation. "Who's Afraid of Little Old Me?" is one of Taylor's most powerful songs and definitely translates the idea that Violet's powers are going to be stronger than ever, while "So It Goes..." is equal parts suspense and seduction, and is TOTALLY about "all the pieces fall right into place" to get together with the right person.

There's so much more to unpack so I suggest grabbing a yummy snack while you fall down the rabbit hole. All I'm sure of is that Onyx Storm is going to leave our emotions in shambles just like Fourth Wing and Iron Flame did.

When did Rebecca Yarros announce she's done writing book no. 3 in the series?

Rebecca Yarros/Instagram

On June 17, Rebecca Yarros shared this image of her laptop to indicate she'd finished the third book in the Empyrean series.

She wrote, "(Pic from one of the very many locations in which this book was written)," towards the end of the caption before adding a few relevant hashtags to it.

When will Onxy Storm be available for purchase?

Rebecca Yarros/Instagram

Rebecca Yarros exclusively told Good Morning America that fans can expect the book to hit shelves January 21, 2025! That gives us a little over six months to prepare our emotions for what's sure to be a storm of a book.

She said, "There will be politics, new adventures, old enemies and of course, dragons." There's no way she could forget the dragons because I'd willingly riot over them. They deserve to have their stories told forever.

As luck would have it, Cosmopolitan received an exciting first look at what's to come in Onyx Storm. The excerpt begins with Violet realizing the Venin have found their way into Basgiath War College and are wreaking havoc. Alongside Rhiannon, Sawyer, and Ridoc, she races to stop the Venin from releasing Jack Barlowe from his prison cell.

However, Violet's shocked when she discovered one of the "dark wielders" has a long silver braid that closely resembles her own. Before she can fully react, the woman disappears. According to Screen Rant, there are possible theories about why Violet saw her and what this means for her growing power.

Towards the end of the excerpt, Violet discovers the Venin want to capture her too. Also, Xaden makes his long-awaited appearance and it's clear their playful banter in the face of danger hasn't changed. That he hasn't fully changed into the Venin Violet's used to seeing.

I officially can't wait to read the rest of the book in January!

Has Rebecca Yarros revealed the cover for Onyx Storm?

Today/Bree Archer, Elizabeth Turner Stokes for Entangled Publishing

Onyx Storm

Yes!

TODAY received an exclusive look at the cover for Onyx Storm and it doesn't disappoint! Unlike its predecessors, it appears Rebecca Yarros is hinting that darker events will take place.

Fans of the Empyrean series aren't the only ones who are excited to see what fate has in store for our favorite characters though. In a statement to TODAY, Rebecca revealed how elated she is to be working on the series again. "It's amazing to be back with these characters again. She also said, ""I can't wait for readers to see what Violet, Xaden, and the rest of the quadrant have in store for them in Onyx Storm!"

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This post has been updated.

Denim skirts are a closet staple, but they're having a little extra moment in the sun right now. Some of us were forced to wear denim maxi skirts to church, so the idea of them being considered overtly fashionable has been shocking to say the least — but I'm starting to come around...suddenly, finding them among my favorite jeans sparks joy. And though I'm a midi skirt girl through-and-through, the magic of a denim skirt is that you can style them from mini to maxi (if you dare). Searching for your version of the perfect denim skirt? You've come to the right place!

Mini Denim Skirts

Abrand Jeans Pleated Denim Mini Skirt

Challengers was one of the most highly anticipated movies of the year, and quickly inspired the tenniscore trend we're seeing left and right lately. What better way to kick off our denim skirts roundup than with a mini pleated design?

It's made with comfort denim, has a low-rise fit, and a raw hem that creates a superbly edgy look — with a hint of tennis-clad class.

Future Collective with Jeneè Naylor Belted Button-Front Denim Mini Skirt

I didn't know denim skirts could look so chic until I saw influencer Jeneè Naylor's take on them! This button-front design is great for the stylish individual who wants to wear something that doesn't feel super causal.

It's designed with midweight and recycled cotton along with a belt that allows you adjust the fit of the skirt's waistline.

Levi's A-Line Button Front Mini Skirt

Sometimes you just need a simple A-line skirt that feel perfect for those ultra casual days. Prior to welcoming midi denim skirts with welcome arms, I loved wearing A-line skirts. They seemed to elongate my more petite frame, so I kept them in rotation!

This skirt is easy to wash (thank goodness for machine-wash care instructions), and has the classic front-button I'll never get tired of seeing.

Anthropologie Pilcro Denim Mini Skirt

In case there's a chance that you're tired of blue wash denim, let this neutral cream-colored skirt elevate whatever look you're going for. It's mostly made of cotton with a few additions like elastane and polyester, making it a super cute choice for those really sunny days.

Midi Denim Skirts

Hudson Reconstructed Skirt

This 5-star rated denim skirt is the mother of all midi skirts, if you're looking for a longer length. It's unlined, has five pockets, and a front slit that won't threaten to expose your goodies. This skirt is the perfect universal piece that goes with everything from graphic t-shirts to button-up blouses.

Levi's Side Slit Skirt — Artist Divided

Levi's obviously had to make the list more than once because there's no denying that this brand truly lives up to its iconic denim offerings. I've had the same pair of Levi's jeans for almost eight years, so believe me when I saw you need this side slit piece if you want a durable denim skirt. It has a 90's inspired fit that will help complete your "I wish I could've been an extra on the set of She's All That" dreams.

Pistola Denim Alice Midi Skirt

This is another brand whose denim is immaculate. If you're not a fan of the way denim usually fits, you'll rejoice knowing that this midi skirt is beyond comfortable. The front slit is also at a comfortable level that you'll enjoy and the wash of the skirt has that vintage feel you'll come to appreciate. Plus, this is actually Pistola's best selling denim skirt, so that should speak for itself too.

Banana Republic Pia Denim Midi Skirt

Want something edgy and feminine? Go for Banana Republic's dark wash denim midi skirt. It's designed in Italy, so you'll be getting a skirt that has amazing quality with all that European style we know and love.

I personally love the panel seams that are evenly placed on the skirt which creates an irresistible depth of dimension that makes me want to buy it. Also, there are lovely belt loops included so you can add a contrasting taupe or cream belt to it!

Maxi Denim Skirts

NA-KD Slit Detailed Maxi Denim Skirt (Light Blue)

I love that this skirt has a classic feel that whispers sophistication. Now that I think about it, mini and midi denim skirts always needed a big sister, and this maxi has no problem taking that role on.

Wear it with a slightly oversized blazer and a pair of mules for that relaxed business casual look that can get through a day at the office. It's not recommended for people under 5'5" to wear maxi skirts, but a quick trip to a tailor can quickly debunk that idea! 😚

MANGO Long Denim Skirt

You still need a truly casual option when it comes to a maxi denim skirt — which is the perfect job for this little MANGO number. It has a true relaxed fit and wash that makes it easy for you to wear this on the days you don't have to clock into work.

Similar to the outfit above, all you need is a colorful tank top and pair of sandals you love to complete your lazy Friday OOTD.

Madewell Denim Carpenter Maxi Skirt

Want to be stylish while you present your latest project at work? Slip into Madewell's carpenter maxi skirt that's all business and takes nice cue from the '70s.

You'll love strutting around in this silhouette and may even feel like it's your lucky skirt when you totally rock your work day.

Princess Polly Deneuve Denim Maxi Skirt Skirt Mid Wash

This is a skirt that'll easily take you from frolicking outside during summer to having Halloween-themed date nights during fall. The mid wash feels like something you'll reach for during the last few weeks of August and even during October while the four pockets gives you plenty of space to put your lip oils in.

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Lead image via Target

Kate Winslet is THE Hollywood actress to me. Not only has she starred in box office smashes like Titanic and Avatar: Way of Water, but she's proven her acting chops in breakout indie flicks and provided mothers and daughters everywhere with eternal Christmas movie nights thanks to The Holiday. But the actress' consistently viral kindness, her dedication to embracing her natural beauty, and her sophistication don't mean she always feels confident. Kate Winslet just spilled on the one movie from her career that had her "sh—ing" herself, and I just had to dive in.

Here's what Kate Winslet had to say about her scariest movie experience ever.

  • Kate Winslet made a name for herself with Titanic, Sense & Sensibility, and The Holiday.
  • However those movies aren't the film she wants fans to ask about!
  • The actress spills on the movies she's proud of, and the one job that had her "sh—ing myself."

Talking to Vanity Fair for her newest film Lee, Kate Winslet revealed one project she wishes fans asked about more is Iris. The 2001 film stars Kate as a young Iris Murdoch against Judi Dench's older counterpart. And for Kate, nothing was more terrifying than working with such a wonderful actress.

"People don’t really ask me about Iris. It’s such a delicate film," she says. "It was the first thing I had done after having my daughter. Going to work with a baby, I’m playing Iris Murdoch, looking to Judi Dench’s older Iris Murdoch — I was sh—ting myself."

Considering how nervous I get when I meet my heroes, I can only imagine what it was like to meet Dame Judi Dench. Talk about a dream! Another film Kate loves is Revolutionary Road, and not just because she got to reunite with Leonardo DiCaprio.

"The thing that people say is, 'You got to work with Leo again.' Then they go off on the whole Leo tangent, which I totally understand," she says of the film, which follows an ambitious couple who find themselves trapped in the reality of 1950s suburbia. "But Revolutionary Road — f—king hell, it just knocked us all sideways. Unbelievably difficult material. I was very proud of that film and what Leo and I were able to create as Frank and April. It was so brutal."

The process for getting Lee into the world sounds equally brutal, considering Kate started working on it over a decade ago. As producer, Kate tells Vanity Fair she doesn't mind the fact she's done more for the film than if she only had an acting credit. "That has felt very necessary for this film. But it’s also just really important to me," she says. "It’s important to me that people know that it’s out there and might feel compelled to go and see it."

Because it turns out, commercial success or stardom on its own doesn't actually help your movie get made! "It doesn’t matter who you are," she says. "No one’s going to go, 'Oh, I’ll just back that pony because she was in Titanic.' It doesn’t happen that way, and I never expected that. That’s really important to say."

"I've gotten older and I’ve learned more and felt more confident in myself about whether or not I could actually do it," she adds. "It’s not something I would’ve done had I not felt so passionately about the subject, and Lee was just—she wouldn’t let me go."

Let us know your favorite Kate Winslet movies in the comments, and since we've officially entered cozy season, check out Why The Holiday Movie Ending Is The Most Important Scene while you're at it!

Marvel movies are known for their heroes and their hopeful outlook on the world. But in 2025, we're getting a brand new team: the Thunderbolts. This team is made up of antiheroes and former villains, and it's sure to be the wackiest and strangest, as well as one of the most memorable, superhero movies we've seen in recent years.

Keep reading for the latest news on Thunderbolts* before it hits theaters in 2025.

Marvel Studios/YouTube

Thunderbolts* comes out this May, and the cast just showed off some brand new footage at the D23 convention — and thanks to the new 'Celebrating 85 Years' spot, we have the first look too!

We get a look at Bucky Barnes, The Red Guardian, John Walker, and Ghost. Plus, Yelena Belova, of course. This heartbreaking detail about Yelena's new look connects Florence Pugh's Yelena to Scarlett Johansson's Natashaand I'm WEEPING.

Marvel Studios/Walt Disney Studios

And at D23 Brazil, we got a brand new look at my new favorite team. "There’s something in this film, in terms of superpowers and superheroes, that shows that our superpowers lie in how ‘broken’ we are," David Harbour said at the event. "As if our superpowers came from our relationships.”

What is the plot of Thunderbolts?

Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney

Thunderbolts* Plot

Consider Thunderbolts* to be The Avengers' edgy younger sibling. The movie follows Yelena Belova (who we know off the bat is a "depressed assassin" thanks to a Marvel Studios press release). She's joined by Bucky Barnes, The Red Guardian, and John Walker. Based on a leak, it looks like we'll see this group of misfits team up against Valentina Allegra de Fontaine after she sends them on a deadly mission.

Thunderbolts* Release Date

Jesse Grant/Disney

Thunderbolts* Release Date

Thunderbolts* hits theaters May 2, 2025.

Who's on the Thunderbolts team?

Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney

Thunderbolts* Cast

Thunderbolts* stars Florence Pugh, Geraldine Viswanathan, Lewis Pullman, Hannah John-Kamen, Wyatt Russell, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Sebastian Stan, and David Harbour.

This is a huge cast, and Viswanathan just revealed how crazy the first day of filming was. “My first day didn’t feel real," she tells Vanity Fair. "I felt this extra pressure of, ‘Know your lines, babe. You can’t really play around like you usually do.’"

Historically, sci-fi fans haven't been kind to actresses in their favorite projects (remember when Star Wars fans bullied Kelly Marie Tran off social media?). But Viswanathan is already thinking ahead. “If it’s overwhelming, I’ll log off. But I like discourse around pop culture,” she says. “[Thunderbolts*] felt a little bit edgier and fresher, more existential and dark.”

Jesse Grant/Disney

The rest of the cast also enjoyed working together. “Everyone is going to f—kin’ love me! It’s really, really, really fun to be with a group of actors that you have a good time with," Wyatt Russell says at Comic Con (via Variety), while David Harbour adds, “Florence Pugh [is] just electric to work with. There’s warmth and humor, but there’s also a lot of pathos.”

“This is why we can't stop laughing together, because we genuinely just had such a wonderful time with each other and we've loved working with one another," Pugh tells People. “I feel like this is something that we've never seen before from Marvel...it's a very open and honest and truthful idea. And I'm just really excited for people to watch it.”

Are you excited for this brand new chapter in the MCU? I really feel like Thunderbolts* will usher in a whole new generation of fans and I, for one, CANNOT WAIT! Let us know your thoughts on Facebook.

Lead images via Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney

This post has been updated.