In general, I think that loose/wide trousers don’t do me many favours. But recently I remembered that I had a green and white gingham pair of trousers that I’d made from McCalls 8740 back in the 90s that I really loved to wear. So I dug out the pattern and made another pair.
I really do like this pair of pants. The fabric is a fairly tightly woven mid-weight cotton, in a very dark navy that is shifts slightly in colour throughout the weave. It came from an earlier raid on the Darn Cheap Fabrics $2 per metre table. It was beautiful fabric to work with, and sewed and ironed perfectly.
One of the nice details about this pattern is the pockets. They have a little “step” at the bottom, and are drafted with the curves of the abdomen in mind – they don’t lie flat when you have them on a table, but sit perfectly on the body. There is a simple elastic waist, with an additional drawstring tie threaded through buttonholes.
The legs are very straight and full. I shortened the pattern in two places, halfway down the leg, and through the rise. Then I whacked two inches from the length as well, before turning a wide double fold hem and top-stitching it into place.
These look ridiculously short and wide when on a hanger, but they fit me well. It’s all about proportion, I suppose! I tried them on with a loose top and it was a complete disaster – they need a top that either has some waist definition or is rather fitted. Of course, I will NEVER be tucking anything in to them.
So, my verdict? I still think that this is a terrific pants pattern, despite the 1997 copyright date. It has reminded me that I used to own a pair of loose white linen pants and a pair of loose black washed-silk pants that I wore until they pretty much fell apart. Maybe they need to be re-created in this pattern too? Or are they a bit too much like pyjama pants?
Maybe I need to press a crease down the centre.
They look really great, and comfy, too. And if they were linen they would be great for a hot Australian day. I think they look great
Lee x
They look really good on you, and I love that top too, it makes a great outfit together! I am so sold on Darn Cheap, I would live there if I was in Melbourne!! It was great meeting you too, I wish we’d been able to have some more time to talk, but there’s always next time
I think you have styled them well! Go ahead, make them in all your favourite colours.
Here, here! I say make them in all your favourite fabrics. You can’t have too many throw on pants! I love that top with them too.
Rathdowne have sand washed silk/linen that would be perfect for these pants. It feels beautiful against the skin.
Glad to know you’ll never be tucking the pants in, it’s really not a good look on anyone.
I think you should make some in white.
I love the way they look on you. Very cute outfit.
Make more! I’m all for the elastic waist paints at the moment, I made a similar style a few weeks ago- but no pockets bug me. Might go looking for that pattern….
You definitely should recreate the white linen and the black sandwashed silk version because this pair looks fabu on you! Gawd, it’s warm there…I miss warmth! *LOL*
I’ve been admiring this pic on Flickr and waiting for you to blog it. I love how you have styled your outfit and the pants look great
Oh I really like them…they look great and quite comfortable
I like these and they pair well with that top. These are two items that I’d wear and feel comfortable in. You look great.
Another success!! I have been considering the Colette wide leg pants – I think they are a great look Lara. And good on you Darn Cheap!
I’ve seen them in the flech on you and they definitely don’t look like PJs