These are classic chino-type trousers which you can also make in a cuffed shorts version. I was a bit concerned about the length because I couldn’t find anything from Thread Theory about what height man they’re designed for. I can tell you that Tom is 6 feet tall and the shorts hit just below his knees which ended up looking pretty good, so bear that in mind if you’re making them!
I used a really nice soft olive cotton twill from Mood Fabrics, which turned out to have a bit of stretch in it (although this wasn’t mentioned in the listing). I was a bit concerned when it turned up that it wouldn’t be suitable for boy trousers, but in fact it was perfect. It’s almost slightly suede-y and soft…
The fun of this pattern is all in the details – many of which were very new to me.
First up: fly front! I made these before I made my Katy & Laney fly front tap shorts, and it was definitely a challenge to begin with because there are so many different parts to put together that it’s hard to tell if you’re doing it correctly. However, then I found the Jebediah sew-along, and in particular the video on the fly front – that made soooooo much more sense than the written directions for me. And I’m pretty pleased with the outcome!
On the back, we have a flat-felled yoke with perfect seam matching if I say so myself…! Also patch pockets with decorative stitching, and belt loops.
Please excuse the apparent slight wedgie in the photos… it’s just the way he was standing, I swear they fit!
One really cute detail is the turn ups: Thread Theory recommends doing bound seams on the outside leg so that when they’re turned up there’s a little peek of the binding. I was going to use purple binding but I had to constantly remind myself to make something suitable for men and not women! It’s an endless struggle… Anyhow, I went with a subtle brown pre-made binding. There are actually three types of seaming in these shorts: bound, flat felled (on the inside leg) and serged (on the crotch seam).
And most importantly: Tom likes them too!
These turned out beautifully (is it weird to say that about a pair of men’s shorts?)! The details really are superb, and you did a wonderful job. Look at all those Rushmores in France in Jenny-made shorts! Lovely.
I reckon men’s shorts can be beautiful! Thanks Lauren!
I love these!!!! I was just eyeing this pattern the other day (along with the comox trunks) and nudging Boyfriend going “see? you could have a handmade wardrobe too!”
He was not as amused as I was.
You totally need to convince him! 😀
They look fantastic! I’ve been meaning to make my husband a pair of these for a while now… time to do some unselfish sewing!
Thanks Lindsay – it’s a very satisfying project doing all the little details, so I highly recommend it
i love how they are tapered – super-classy. great work!
Thank you!
Love these! They suit your brother perfectly – he’s giving off a really awesome vintage vibe with his hair style and the longish length of the shorts :). I’m glad you had fun and also a good challenge while sewing these!
Thanks! What a good pattern – really enjoyed making it and learning some new things 🙂
They look great! Your brother is lucky to have such a talented seamstress in the family! I love putting little colourful details in men’s clothes. When I patch my stepson’s clothes, I always do it with fun fabrics. LOL.
Isn’t it fun! I keep on trying to sneak colours in 🙂
Excellent job! It looks like your bro is happy with them!
Thanks Tanya! Yes luckily I think he likes them…
These look very spiffy! Say, are you in Gordes? The village shots look very familiar to me. I love Provence!
Yes we were !! Very good spotting there! It’s really beautiful
4 of my kids have birthdays in November and December, and so always have splendid celebrations. It’s nice that you and your brothers have a similar tradition. The shorts you made for Tom are really nice (and you do have a handsome brother there to wear your fine shorts).
Yes it’s fun having a holiday season! And I will pass on the compliment to Tom 🙂
Those look great! I have only ever made my husband pj pants… that’s it for men’s clothing! BUT I would like to try a real button-up shirt for our anniversary… and downloaded a boxer-brief pattern from Greenstyle patterns. Maybe I’ll be brave enough to make him pants sometime soon!
I started with boxers, moved onto the Colette Negroni, and now shorts! I quite enjoy doing men’s clothing because the material is so stable, and fitting doesn’t have to be as exact
These look GREAT!!!
Thanks Sonja!
Very nice shooting in the Luberon villages…I’m living in Provence and recognized the place at the first look on Kollabora. I enjoy your so clean and fine finishing. U did a really great job (lucky brother), and had nice hollidays (it seems !!)
Wow, I wish I lived in Provence!! And thanks 🙂