I thought a fat quarter was just a big square, not actually a full width of the roll?
according to these listings i am reading, a fat quarter, is a quarter of a yard. Yes, a square, not the full width of the roll.

You need the full width of the roll for dressmaking, which is why i would not buy ONE fat quarter, to make a skirt.
i think the FQ listings are really aimed more at people wanting to QUILT with the fabric, not make clothing. (or attempt to make, in my case!).