I love finding patterns that cross many seasons and styling and the Crew Pants and Shorts Pattern by Chalk and Notch does just that. Gabriela designed a beautiful pattern with lovely attention to details such as pleats, lapped zipper and many helpful tutorials to help you sew them. When I first saw this pattern I pictured red pants. Apparently, I wasn’t the only one, as several testers created the exact same thing. I love that these red Crew Pants can be styled for a casual spring or fall day, or dressed up for your holiday festivities.
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These red crew pants were made with a thrifted fabric find. I believe it is a crepe of some sort but the exact contents I am unsure of. It worked well with this pattern and I also think linen/linen like fabrics would be a fantastic match for this pattern. The shorts view made up in linen for summer will be on my list next year.
For a more casual look, these pants pair fabulously with another Chalk and Notch pattern- the Victory Tank. I wrote a review of the Victory Tank here.
But, for a more dressed up look, I think it looks fantastic with a more fitted top like this Tai Top I made with added pearl trim. Throw on some heels and you have a holiday ready look.
During testing my biggest concern was …well, making pants. I am no pants expert and fit is always a bit frightening to me. I am happy to report that these were pretty great right from the start. I chose a size 6 based on my waist and hip measurements. I shortened them 1/2 inch at the calf shorten/lengthen line because the pattern is drafted for 5’7 and I am 5’5. I think they could have been a tad bit shorter to truly be cropped so I should have probably shortened another 1/2 inch. The rise, waist and seat all fit great during my first try. I love how the pleats and back darts allow you a little wiggle room with fit if needed. The only issue I had was the width of the thigh area. I do measure two sizes smaller than the size 6 for the thighs (thigh measurements are included in the pattern), so I tapered in the legs quite a bit so they were not so baggy. I would have taken in just a smidge more near the hip area but with the zipper already installed this would not work. I ended up taking out about 1/2 inch on the upper leg seams and also near the ankles.
This pattern has so much helpful info in it, that even us pants newbies can feel confident sewing up a pair. From measurements to adjustment help, Gabriela’s pattern helps you choose the right size and grading needed from the beginning. Then the instructions and videos she adds for installing the zipper and pockets is very helpful. I did find myself a little confused on the written instructions for the zipper- but I am a total (I need to see a video demo kind of gal) and the video she provided solved any doubt or confusion I had about the zipper installation.
So, whether dressing up or down, these crew pants are a great little pattern.
Make sure to check them out during release week for special pricing! All the tester photos can be seen here and the pattern can be found on the Chalk and Notch Website.
Until next time,
Happy Sewing
About 18 years ago I decided to teach myself how to sew. Long before blogs and resources available today which meant it was often disastrous. But I never gave up because I loved it so much. Today I love helping others get started on their own sewing journey. You can read more about my family and I