Soline Culottes by Stay Stitch Pattern Company

The pattern is designed for woven fabrics, and has a classic trouser shape, a paper bag waist, drawstring and multiple pocket options! They feature a high waisted fit, with positive ease throughout the hip and thigh, and have an extra wide hem. There are two lengths- shorts and culotte. There are three pocket options: Gusseted Pockets, Patch Pockets and Inseam Pockets. I chose the inseam pockets for this pair as I wanted to keep the lines of the pants clean.

The pattern has a high waisted fit which is an adjustment I always have to change. I much prefer a medium rise for a comfortable fit with being so short waisted.

Using my front and back rise measurements, based on a favourite pair of pants, I simply measure up from the crotch seam and mark my preferred height for both the front and back rise. I then add 2 cm to the total length to account for the seam allowance at the crotch and waistband. This gives me a perfectly fitting pair of culottes that I can wear just above my hips instead of at my waist.

I made a size 14 culotte graded down to a size 10 through the hips. This was an easy adjustment to make based on my lower waist and hip measurements. I could have made a size 12 for the waistline but I wanted to have more of a paper bag look and the fabric that I used was lightweight so I wasn't worried about bulk.

I really enjoyed creating the waistband on these culottes. The step by step instructions in the pattern are easy to follow and the finished product is stylish and sporty. I used a poly/silk blend fabric from my stash so I would have a dressier version for work and going out. Now I have comfort, style and fashion all rolled into one pair of wonderfully chic pair of pants.

With being 6 feet tall I added 11 inches to the length. I wanted ankle length pants so that I can wear them through the winter and have them just skim the top of my booties. I don't like to show too much leg in the cooler months. In the spring and summer they will be great with sandals and flats.

I really appreciate the minimalist styling of these pants and I know I will be making another more as the fall season progresses. I already have some heavier weight dark brown drapey fabric lined up for my winter wardrobe.

After all... There is Sew Much To Design.

Happy Sewing,

Lou Sheffer

• Pants, Culottes & Shorts