Helen's Closet Winslow Culottes

The Winslow is a fab pattern for summer - with lots of different options using the different lengths and hacks detailed on Helen's blog.  I've made a few pairs of the shorts in chambray which I wear every summer, but for my latest pair I used the elasticated waist hack to make these glorious yellow swishy pants of dreams.

The instructions, for both the main pattern and the hack, are really clear and easy to follow, with simple and clear illustrations. This version was so fast to sew up, with no zip or pleats, and a super simple waistband. I cut out the size 14, taking 3inches off the side seams, drafted a new waistband, and skipped the pockets (yes, I regret that terrible decision!). I definitely could have taken more off, or made a smaller size, but I still love these as they are.

If I hadn't made a few mistakes (hello sewing the two front pieces together and overlocking them!), I'd have finished these in less than two hours - and I'm a very slow sewist. As you can see I adore these swishy amazing culottes. Perfect for warm days, super comfy, practical, and stylish, I've never felt more 'me' when wearing these...if only I'd added pockets! I think next summer I might try the hack without side seams...

Full write up on my blog

Fantastic pattern, very easy to assemble and can be made out of far less fabric than the requirement calls for.

Love the nice fitting waistband, the drapy fabric and the soft fit.

Read more here...

I initially bought this fabric to make a pair of the Miller Trousers but once I saw it in person I thought they would be suited to this pattern better. This is the first pattern I have made from Helen’s Closet - I had heard about her reputation for having the best instructions and they definitely lived up. They were clear, detailed and she also has each step of the process broken down on her blog with even more helpful hints and pictures.
This was the first invisible zipper I put in on my own and I must say I am pretty proud of the way it turned out, it wasn’t hard at all. The only issue I had was my interfacing did not want to stay on my fabric no matter how much I ironed it on!
I didn’t make any alterations, I was planning on shortening them because the pattern is drafted for someone that is 5’7 and I am 5’4 but I forgot to do this and actually think it turned out for the best, I really like the length.
I love all the varieties she has and I think I will make a pair of the shorts next.
I can’t wait to wear these this summer!

There are absolutely no faults to be found with culottes - what's not to like? Comfy, easy to style, maintain modesty at all times (even in high winds) and solve that awkward problem of 'chub rub' for those of us that were not blessed with a 'thigh-gap'. Not all culottes were created as equals, however, but the Winslows are gold standard.

This is a fantastic beginner level pattern for two reasons; firstly, Helen's instructions are brilliant. They will hold your hand from beginning to end and teach even experienced seamstresses a tip or two along the way. Secondly, because of the style of the garment the only fitting you need to do is at the waist - hooray!

I checked the size guide and finished garment measurements carefully before deciding to make a size 6. This ensures a close fit around my 27" waist and means I still have plenty of ease around my 38" hips, even though they are 2" bigger than the pattern recommends for a size 6. I made view C with no alterations, although they look quite long on me because I'm only 5'4" and have short legs!

Let's talk about the fabric I used, because it's flipping special. This is tencel twill from Merchant and Mills and the colour is called 'pilot'. It is much heavier than their regular tencel twill and weighs in at a hefty 350gsm as opposed to 180gsm. The result is a gorgeous drape and a soft, deep twill - it's a perfect match for culottes!

I will 100% be making another pair of Winslows and the only change will be the fabric I use. I fancy a lighter weight pair for warm days - maybe a nice linen blend, or even a bold print? I can't wait!

I can't believe it has taken me so long to get on the Winslow bandwagon. I'm very annoyed at myself that I could have found my perfect culottes years ago if only I had got my act together! But I digress...

If you haven't made the Winslows before, you really should. They are such an easy project but look great as well. They would be great for a beginner looking to expand their skill set. There's a concealed zip at the back, pockets and pleats, but the only thing you need to worry about fitting is the waist. Not mention Helen's instructions: they're really clear, easy to read and full of tips and advice throughout. Her instructions are some of my favourite ones, actually.

I made a size 10, view C (midi length) and it fits like a glove. They came together really quickly and they're easy to cut out as well. Plus, they're super versatile. You can style them different ways and the pattern would work in a variety of fabrics. What an absolute winner!

I have more photos on my blog but there really isn't that much more to say... Winslows are fabulous. That's all.