It only took me 5 years to make trousers!!!

Pattern Description:
Palazzo style pants with front and back inverted pleats and a centre back zip with waistband.

Pattern Sizing:

Helen’s Closet patterns go from size 0 to size 30.

I made a size 26, which was one size lower than recommended for my waist measurement.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

very much so

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Yes – I’d give this company kudos for their instructions, they go over and above what is expected.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I made two pairs and on the first pair which I did not alter from the pattern, the crotch hung very low.

I loved how well they fitted at the waist.

Fabric Used:

Cotton lawn for my toile, and silk crepe in the picture. Also – about 5 metres for my first pair (length down to my ankles) and 3.5 metres for my second pair which went just below my knees.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

I made a toile up in a size 28 as per my measurements with no changes to the pattern. The waist was far too loose and the crotch hung very low.

I made the second pair up in a size 26 (which was 1 inch too small based on my measurements but given the 28 was far too big I guessed this would be okay).

I also took the curve up by 1.5 inches and this was a mistake as the culottes then didnt drape like a skirt as they should.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

I probably wont make them again as they are not my style. I would very much recommend them to others, particularly as an entry to pant making.

Conclusion:

This was my first pant pattern that I have made for myself and I put it off for five years! The pants didnt come out perfect due to my own modifications but they are certainly wearable. The pattern itself is very good and well drafted and I would encourage you to give these a go.

If you’d like to see a more detailed review of my experience click this link:
Review of Winslow Culottes by Helen’s Closet on Youtube