My 5 Hour Wearing History “Smooth Sailing” Trousers

So last Thursday I made some trousers. Pants are completely terrifying to me, so I had actually bought the fabric for these trousers months ago, sat on it, and in the post Costume College inspiration burst, entered the world of sewing Legged Things, using the Wearing History “Smooth Sailing” pattern, which I’d heard good things about.

Well how do I put this….the Wearing History trousers pattern is the best pants pattern in the world.


Not that I’ve sewn every pants pattern in the world….but I have sewn up quite a few now, and I’ve found fit and flattery to be difficult things to achieve. Not so with the Wearing History pattern. My goodness, they fit absolutely perfectly – the waist was at my actual waist; they were fitted over the hips, but not tight; the crotch sat in the right place; the straight leg looks great. I’m *thrilled* !

I was also very impressed with the construction techniques shown in the pattern notes. Wearing History guides you through putting these pants together in a way that is very different from any other pants pattern I’ve used, but makes so much more sense. The benefit is in the smooth seams and non-bulky bits between the legs (where bulk always seems to be, and is never welcome).

The most astounding thing is that I put these pants together in 5 hours. I don’t sew anything in a day, but I went from testing muslin to done in one evening. That’s how easy these are.

I wore them two days later for a presentation at a local museum, and I’m so chuffed with these pants I’m taking them to Hong Kong tomorrow. And when I get back, I think I’ll stitch up a couple more pairs, because they really are that great.

So if you’ve been looking for a great vintage trouser pattern, or you’ve had the Wearing History pattern sitting there waiting for some time, do not delay anymore. You won’t regret it. Get stitching!