Sign In
Introducing Selene: Modern Fit, Classic Style
Selene’s Story
-Haley
On my first morning in Paris last autumn I stepped onto the intricately tiled sidewalk in front of my hotel, my stomach begging for food after an early morning flight.
I started to make my way through the chilly and charming cafe lined streets of the 2nd arrondissement in search of food — specifically I needed a burger. As I walked I allowed myself to become captivated with the city that surrounded me, and I began to notice that the rumors seemed to be true — every woman who passed me seemed so effortlessly dressed in flattering skirts, silk blouses, and well-tailored coats, all paired perfectly with well-appointed accessories.
I was instantly smitten with the city’s seemingly inherent fashion sense, and felt a bit out of place in an outfit that would normally be considered stylish in Portland.
As I spent time wandering and observing the street style of Paris, I became determined to infuse more French fashion into my own wardrobe while maintaining my own distinct fashion identity.
I wanted more fine fabrics, fitted jackets, and form fitting pencil skirts. After all, I reasoned, putting on a nice dress in the morning is just as easy as putting on my usual uniform of skinny jeans and a button down.
And that’s where the idea of Selene was born – an effort to fuse my love for Parisian and American street style.
The plain front of version 1 and the tailored welt pockets of version 2 are perfectly suited to be spotted on any cobblestoned, cafe lined alleyway of a major European metropolis.
Version 3 invites a bit more of an American sophistication with the notched menswear inspired angled pockets. All three versions are designed to become wardrobe staples that you can wear year round in any city, so you’ll never feel out of place.
Learn These Skills
Version 1: The Simple Classic
Show off your love for vintage-influenced style in a modern pencil skirt that boasts classic details.
Selene combines a contemporary silhouette with timeless details such as a lapped zipper. Take advantage of the simplicity of version 1 by using a gorgeous floral or bold stripes.
Version 2: The Tailored Classic
Welt pockets are a classic, tailored detail that look stunning on jackets and skirts alike.
Flex your sewing chops by sewing version 2. With its single welt pockets, this version sews up beautifully in wool. Or sew up a version in linen for an effortless look ideal for sunny days.
Version 3: The Modern Classic
Who doesn’t love pockets? Version 3 features diagonal seamed pockets with a menswear inspired notch.
This version is ideal for color blocking. Go bold by using a high contrast fabric for the side panels and pockets, or try using a contrast pocket lining for a more subtle color pop.
Selene looks great in…
Selene is a truly versatile skirt. It looks just as stunning in a dark wash denim as it does in a lush tropical wool.
Get 15% Off + Win!
Can’t wait to start stitching this versatile skirt? Lucky for you, Selene is 15% off through April 19th! No promo code needed, just add Selene to your cart and the discount will be applied at checkout.
In celebration of Selene, we are also giving away three hand-picked Selene kits. These gorgeous kits include all the fabric and notions needed to make Selene (pattern not included).
Kit One Includes: 1 3/4 yards of 60″ wide wool gabardine in lipstick red, 2 yards of 45″ wide tone-on-tone pin dot lining, 1 yard lightweight fusible interfacing, 1 matching 9″ zipper, matching thread, and 1 trouser clasp.
Kit Two Includes: 2 yards of 60″ wide dark wash denim, 2 yards of 45″ wide acetate polkadot lining, 1 yard lightweight fusible interfacing, 1 matching 9″ zipper, matching thread, and 1 trouser clasp.
Kit Three Includes: 1 3/4 yards of 60″ wide cotton rayon yarn dyed suiting, 2 yards of 45″ wide pink rayon lining, 1 yard lightweight fusible interfacing, 1 matching 9″ zipper, matching thread, and 1 trouser clasp.
Leave a comment below sharing which kit is your favorite for a chance to win! Three lucky winners will receive their favorite kit pick. Winners will be announced here on the blog on Tuesday April 19th.
Find Selene Locally
Support your local shewing shop. Check out this list of retailers from all over this globe.
Comments
Marie
April 13, 2016 #
I haven’t worn a dress or skirt in at least 20 years. I’ve always been more comfortable in slacks, even my office and evening attire has been pants but I really like the look of this pattern and think I’m going to buy it for myself. I especially like the denim version with the polka dots. I would make it with the diagonal seamed pockets. Think I’ll start with something like that and then do a linen version paired with a linen jacket this would be great for office wear.
Selina Cerna
April 13, 2016 #
Kit 3 has my favorite fabric and the lining is so lovely and feminine.
Melina
April 13, 2016 #
This is possibly my favorite Colette pattern! I looove the red wool kit.
Amy G Clark
April 13, 2016 #
kit 3 – most definitely. I love the idea of fusing Portland and Paris – I live in Portland and try to channel the Paris sensibility, particularly on the days when the rain gets me down.
Suzanne
April 13, 2016 #
Great skirt! I love kit #3 and would probably make version one. Classic!
Luz
April 13, 2016 #
I am not a skirt person but these are really cute. I could see myself wearing them! Like other ladies it could be great to buy the prepared kits!
Karen
April 13, 2016 #
Ooh, the pragmatist in me is hoping for Kit Three – that yarn dyed fabric is beautiful, and it would pair with so many things! (That being said, the lipstick red is mighty tempting, just for the pure fabulousness.)
Anya
April 13, 2016 #
I love the new pattern! It is so versatile! I am also absolutely smitten by the rayon-cotton suiting, kit #3. I would likely make version 1, although I love the look of welt pockets.
Alicia M
April 13, 2016 #
I love the red and the navy! What a lovely shape skirt, classic and versatile. Love!
Mary
April 13, 2016 #
I love kit number 1. The lipstick red is so vibrant, and sewing a pencil skirt in wool is classic. Plus I could learn to do welt pockets!
Haley
April 13, 2016 #
Welt pockets are a fun challenge. My number one tip is to trust the instructions. The process seems counterintuitive at first but it is magical when it all comes together!
Sherry
April 13, 2016 #
I love Kit #3. I also love the creative inspiration that Colette and company provides each week. Thank you!
Kirsty Hutchison
April 13, 2016 #
Loving the dark wash denim kit. Would love to win it!
Amie
April 13, 2016 #
I am torn between Kits 2 and 3. They are basics that can be worn for any occasion. But Kit 1! Wow! That is a great pop of colour that will turn some heads. Love that one, too!
Deb Pearce
April 13, 2016 #
Just ordered my pattern here in the UK – can’t wait to get started. It also has all the elements I need for my City and Guilds Tailoring course so this may end up being submitted as a final garment piece! Love all the kits – the denim with the contrast lining looks fun. Many thanks, Deb
Anna Rodriguez
April 13, 2016 #
I love the classic style of this pattern and the multiple variations presented. I love the Kit # 2 as washed denim would be an excellent wardrobe staple and work well for Spring and Summer.
Bernardette
April 13, 2016 #
They are all so great but my fav would have to be Kit #1 – red is sooooooo my colour. The can’t wait to get the pattern in my hands. I need to get back to wearing skirts again. Never thought to buy a different lining then the colour of the fabric, you opened my eyes to many possiblilties.
Tasha
April 13, 2016 #
My favorite kit is the Red gabardine! It’s so beautiful!
Svenja
April 13, 2016 #
My favorite is kit 2: blue is my favorite color and I love polka dots!
heatherkg
April 13, 2016 #
The denim in number two is so practical and would be so classy, but I CAN’T HELP MYSELF and I desperately want to make this up in “lipstick red wool”…with that diagonal seamed pocket and worn with a slinky black top….ugh, I can FEEL it!
Wallis
April 13, 2016 #
I love your enthusiasm and style! Can’t wait to see what you make.
Marsha Hill
April 13, 2016 #
I love the third choice. It is a great neutral that will compliment many of my jackets and the pink lining lends a flirty touch. All three are well chosen and the choice was hard yet I can’t help myself when it comes to grey and pink. Version 3 of your skirt would look great because I am a classic kind of girl and love the pocket.
Maureen
April 13, 2016 #
Love, love, love pencil skirts and would love to add this one made with Kit #3. I”m excited to try this pattern, thank you so much !
Linda M. Mundy
April 13, 2016 #
The crisp lines offered by this pattern are very appealing. I’d love to try it with Kit #2. I playing through dressed up and dressed down scenarios in my head right now.
Deanna
April 13, 2016 #
I love them all!!!! Of course #1 grabs my eye, love, love, love red. #2 would be so basic and often worn in the denim. However, #3 looks so classy. So, I think, if I really have to choose, I choose #3.
Love your patterns!
HydrangeA
April 13, 2016 #
I love kit #2 and would make version 1.
krystina
April 13, 2016 #
It’s between Kit 2 and 3 for me. I’ve been thinking about making myself a skirt lately!
Linda
April 13, 2016 #
I absolutely LOVE the detailing of the pockets, and the fact that they are placed on the front of the skirt, rather than on the side seams. Kit #1 is my favorite, although they all are beautiful and would be a great addition to my wardrobe.
Debra
April 13, 2016 #
The denim kit for me! I’m retired now and it would be perfect for my new lifestyle.
Anna
April 13, 2016 #
I love kit 3! Would fit nicely into my wardroble.
Andresa
April 13, 2016 #
Love Kit #3 and would probably make version 1. Really like the pocket on version 3, but not sure how it would work with my short legs (look better in simple straight lines below the waist).
Karen
April 13, 2016 #
Kit Three has to be my favorite. What a fun story behind this skirt. All the more reason to buy the pattern. I long to go to Paris and walk through the cafe lined streets (I almost said, I long to go to Paris and walk the streets! nope!) letting all the Paris air soak into me :) And I would need this skirt. Thank you!
Jen
April 13, 2016 #
Kit 2! I don’t wear skirts but this would have me jump in! :)
Helen
April 13, 2016 #
My fave is kit three!
sue
April 13, 2016 #
I love Kit 3 because grey always pairs well with pink. I also love kit 2 and kit 1, but maybe just a little bit less than I love kit 3! Beautiful!
Mary Reynolds
April 13, 2016 #
Love the denim skirt with the polka dot lining! Polka dots are my absolute favorite!
Vanessa
April 13, 2016 #
I love kit #3! Cute skirt! I think I may just have to make myself one in May for #MeMadeMay
Marie
April 13, 2016 #
Kit #3 is very elegant looking, and I would begin making the second version.
Thank you for your give away offer.
Marie
Maggie
April 13, 2016 #
I love Kit 3!
Barbara
April 13, 2016 #
Kit #2 is right up my alley….no more excuses for this retired person to always be stuck in the jeans rut !! I love polka dots but have almost NONE in my wardrobe :) The Selene pattern is calling my name !!
Debbie Homer
April 13, 2016 #
Ooooh! Kit two would be amazing. Love denim x
Margaret Novy
April 13, 2016 #
Kit Two – polka dots are my fave!!!
Leslie
April 13, 2016 #
So cute! I love Kit #3–great color combination. Thanks!
Dominique
April 13, 2016 #
It’s a tough one but it would have to be Kit 2. Denim and polka dots for version 3 of this skirt… What more could you want? ??
Rach Winchester
April 13, 2016 #
Version 3 is just beautiful, def a modern classic! And made in the gorgeous suiting fabric of option 3 with that peachy pink lining my wardrobe would hit new levels of sophistication!
Starr
April 13, 2016 #
Kit 3 is my favorite! Gray is soothing and works well with brights and neutrals.
Stacey
April 13, 2016 #
Kit #2 is AMAZEBALLS! I love the dark denim and the polka dot lining is so cute. I think the denim would look rad as a version #2 !
Kristy
April 13, 2016 #
Kit 1 would be amazing! I love this
Jessica Shull
April 13, 2016 #
Kit one! I love red
Kara Cox
April 13, 2016 #
Oh I love the yarn dyed suiting in kit 3! I love pencil skirts and it looks like I could learn so many new things with this pattern! Lovely!
Wai Fong Lai
April 13, 2016 #
Thank you for not one, but two fab celebratory offers!
Ideally would like both kits 1 and 2 – may have to resort to buying both (lots of versions to make!) Now, returning to reality, and fingers-crossed, I would love to win kit 2.
It’d go great with the Colette Sorbetto top, or Seamwork Mesa – think Audrey Hepburn in “Sabrina” à la Parisan chic!
Good luck everyone!
Lea
April 13, 2016 #
I’d love a denim pencil skirt so kit 2 would be my choice!
Elizabeth rehmer
April 13, 2016 #
I love kit 2! I’m always swayed by polka dots.
Rebecka
April 13, 2016 #
I Love the third option. It’s classy and can be mixed with a lot of colours. I also love the link lining fabric. Definitely a style that would turn heads! Fantastic!
Huong
April 13, 2016 #
I love a good red pencil skirt so the lipstick red wool would a classic wardrobe addition!
Vikki
April 13, 2016 #
Loving the modern classic look. Would look fab in the denim of Kit Two.
Trudy Umstead
April 13, 2016 #
I love Kit One, you can never have too many bright skirts! I’d love to pair it with my black and white polka dot Violet blouse.
Savannah
April 13, 2016 #
I think kit no. 3 os my favorite. I love thelining jn kit 2, but I’m so weak to a pink/grey combination! So serene and feminine.
Deb Lundeen
April 13, 2016 #
Love this! Kit 2 please!
Randi Smith
April 13, 2016 #
Kit #3 looks lovely!
Emma
April 13, 2016 #
I defiantly need all of them…. but I guess I would chose Kit 1. I need some more red in my wardrobe and the model for the pattern looks great in it!
Lyndsy
April 13, 2016 #
#3 is by far my favorite! I’d love the opportunity to sew up that badass skirt.
Betsey
April 13, 2016 #
Wish I could pull off the red, but I’d pick #2. Lovely!
Dana Warner
April 13, 2016 #
Number 3 for me please!
Jemny
April 13, 2016 #
Version 3 for sure. Thanks for giveaway!
Sarah Simpson
April 13, 2016 #
I love, love, love kit three! The combo of the gray and lite pink is way beautiful! Another awesome pattern, thank you Colette!
Amanda
April 13, 2016 #
They grey skirt kits is just stunning!
Quinn Albright
April 13, 2016 #
I would love to win kit one! The red is so amazing! I can’t wait to sew this pattern and learn some new skills!
Katrin Tjärnström
April 13, 2016 #
I pick the second one. Really liked the third one also but I believe that the second one is more for me. Love your patterns.
Jenny
April 13, 2016 #
Nice pattern! I love Kit #1 and would go with version 3, the notched pockets are a great styling detail.
Carol
April 13, 2016 #
Would love to make Selene in denim, so it’s kit 2 for me. Here’s hoping!
Lakisha Davis
April 13, 2016 #
I love all three kits. Kit one is great because the lipstick red is so vibrant and would be great for a date night. Kit two is more everyday wear. Now kit three is the one I would pick hands down, I love the colors and it takes you from work to Happy hour with the coworkers. So with no questions ask Kit number three would be my choice.
Anna Poole
April 13, 2016 #
I love kit 2! Fingers crossed :-)
Christine Town-Treweek
April 13, 2016 #
What a stylish skirt and I would love to make one. Kit 2 is my favourite – denim and gorgeous polka dot lining – love it.
Melanie
April 13, 2016 #
I love kit number 2. This is exactly the fit and style of skirt I’ve been wanting to bring my work wordrobe to the next level
Maryka
April 13, 2016 #
Ooo! So hard to choose!! I love the texture of Kit 3. However, I am a sucker for a bright red wool. My top pick is Kit 1
Anita
April 13, 2016 #
Lovely classic pattern! The denim is the winner for me.
Sydney
April 13, 2016 #
Kit three for sure! I’m a beginner sewer, but I can’t wait to make this! Looks right within my skill level :)
Jessica
April 13, 2016 #
Kit two with the denim would make a gorgeous Selene! Love it!
Alice Gallagher
April 13, 2016 #
Loving the denim kit. Perfect for spring xxx
Jeanie
April 13, 2016 #
Kit 2 in denim, dress up or down all year round!!!
Genevieve Hamilton
April 13, 2016 #
Love the denim! The polkadot lining is adorable. I would make the classic version 1. I think it looks great on its own, it doesn’t need a pocket
Kayla
April 13, 2016 #
I absolutely adore kit number 3 that grey diamond pattern would be so chic made into this skirt.
Bee Barnard
April 13, 2016 #
My fave is no 2 – the Denin. Absolutely gorgeous pattern!
Jen
April 13, 2016 #
I can’t wait to make this! Hopefully in kit #3
Pat T
April 13, 2016 #
I especially like version 3. “Selene” reminds me so much of the first skirt I made many years ago in my middle school home ec class. The teacher ordered the pattern a size too small, and she had to help me insert a front panel so the zipper would go all the way up!
Alexandra Patterson
April 13, 2016 #
I love kit 2 and kit 3!
Lacey Burns
April 13, 2016 #
What a lovely skirt! Kit #2 is calling my name. My wardrobe needs this skirt!
Elizabeth
April 13, 2016 #
I found Colette through the Sew Over It YouTube channel and I am so glad it happened. They have wonderful patterns that I can’t wait to try! The Selene skirt would be a wonderful addition to my wardrobe/pattern collection. I love kit 3! Very beautiful.
Meg
April 13, 2016 #
Happy you found us! Sew Over It is great :)
Jae
April 13, 2016 #
I love them all but I would love to win the red wool kit as I have yet to make a skirt in red. I think it’s an amazing color and the fabric sounds amazing! This pattern is definitely on my ever growing list, ;).
Jamie
April 13, 2016 #
Tough choice between the red wool or grey menswear.
I love the lines and have been looking for a Parisian inspired skirt! I felt the same way my first trip to Paris; its life changing. I do hope you had an amazing trip.
Already ordered and excited to start sewing. ?
Elizabeth
April 13, 2016 #
Being a Jeans Girl- The Denim kit would fit perfect with my style.
The pattern is on the way…..
Kathy
April 13, 2016 #
I love kit #3! So pretty and feminine ;).
Thanks for a lovely and generous giveaway!
Nane
April 13, 2016 #
Congratulations on a great new pattern! And thanks a thousand times that you take “real” women to show your patterns, not the usual skinny models!!! While I first thought I would not need this new pattern, my second thought was that this will go wonderful for a business look combined with a blazer. And that it comes along with a lot of features I still need to learn sewing. So even if I’m not the one to wear pencil skirts on a regular basis, I will definitely go to sew one to improve my skills – and after having a lot of your patterns I’m sure I will! Hopefully with Kit No. 2 ;-)
Sarah
April 13, 2016 #
Kit number two is my jam. Well done Colette team, this skirt, along with the story, is something you should be proud of! Thank you.
Elsa
April 13, 2016 #
Oh my! I’m all in for the denim kit! Polka dots and denim are my favorite!
Corie Wiren
April 13, 2016 #
Kit 3! It’s a spring dream and would be perfect for strolling in the park paired with a little cardigan.
Åsa Maria Borg
April 13, 2016 #
I love them all!! But if I have to choose I will go for the red one (kit #1) :-)
Jessica
April 13, 2016 #
Ooh, kit 3 would be so good! It would also help me look a lil more professional!
Kristen
April 13, 2016 #
I like kit 3 the best, although all are cute!
ChrisK
April 13, 2016 #
What a great new pattern, I love it! Quite the change from my usual flowy style dress or skirt and something I’ve been wanting to try! I think kit #2 the denim is my favorite and woul make me giddy with joy!
Holly Hughes
April 13, 2016 #
Kit #2 for version 3 is a winner! I love those modern pockets!