I’m so happy to introduce you to the Opal pants and shorts sewing pattern!
We started working on this pattern almost eighteen months ago, and I’m so glad we took the time to really perfect it because we ended up adding on so many options and I love how it has turned out! As often happens this pattern fills a void in my own wardrobe – a comfy pants shaped void ;) After wearing jeans constantly for the last few years I have found myself really wanting some comfy pants that are also stylish.
This pattern has been designed to be modular and all pattern pieces can be mixed and matched to your hearts content to make your dream pants! Please don’t feel limited by the views we’ve included because there are honestly endless combinations you can try.
I wanted to keep this pattern at a beginner level as a really achievable entry level pants pattern, but the wonderful thing is that there are enough great details to make it a really fun pattern for more experienced makers!
Let’s have a look at all the details…
View A tapered leg paper bag waist pant
This was the first view that we worked on for Opal, and it’s still my favourite. This view is a tapered leg pant with inseam pockets, paper bag waist and fabric belt. I love it because with the right fabric choice it can look incredibly dressy and tailored, even though it’s elasticated! We’ve included multiple cut lengths for this view to allow you to find the perfect inseam length for you – and personally I like to make them full length so i have the option to roll them up and wear them cuffed if I feel like it.
As with all views this one is easy to adapt to your tastes. You can swap out for the plain waistband, add patch front pockets and back pockets.
View B wide leg pant
This view of the pattern is a lovely wide leg pant with standard elastic waist, inseam pockets and back pockets. For our samples I really wanted to show how different this pattern can look depending on fabric choice. We’ve used a bronze antique was linen and a pinstriped linen, and it’s amazing to see that one pair is super casual and relaxed whilst the pinstripe is dressier.
As with all views you can choose your preferred inseam length and can mix and match elements from the pattern to create your own look. I’m keen to try a paperbag waist or statement patch pocket on this view!
View C paper bag waist shorts with patch pockets
This view is a pair of shorts with paper bag waist and statement patch pockets. I adore these pockets so much and they are so fun to use with a striped/directional fabric!! We have actually included a bonus pocket length in the pattern so that you can have a standard patch pocket like we showed in our samples, or a super long patch pocket for a real statement! I’m really excited to try and long pocket on View A or B.
As with the other views this one can be made with any combination of pattern elements. Feel free to try the standard waistband, add back pockets or a belt, or swap out the statement pockets for inseam pockets. It’s up to you!
View D knee length shorts with belt
This view was a special request by my mom who wanted some longer shorts – and my goodness am I glad I listened to her! I love this view so much and didn’t realise how much I needed long shorts in my life until now. As these have a good amount of volume they almost have a skirt/culotte feel which I am really loving!
As with all views in this pattern you can mix and match all the elements to create your own look. Feel free to change the waistband for a paperbag, leave off the back pockets or belt, or even swap out the inseam pockets for the patch pockets!
All the sizes!
Opal is available in my entire size range, with Sizes 0-20 available in printed and PDF format and Curve sizes 14-30 are available in PDF format.
How does it fit?
This pattern has a generous amount of ease and a very comfortable fit without being too baggy. Both our 0-20 range and Curve 14-30 range include the exact same pattern details, however they are drafted slightly different. Curve sizes 14-30 are drafted with a more scooped out crotch curve, slightly more ease, inner leg room and deeper rise.
Of course there will be tutorials!
You know how much I love providing extra value for you – so there will absolutely be a full sewalong here on the blog to help you make your pants or shorts. These will begin very soon and we’ll show you the simple construction of the pattern as well as loads of tips on the more challenging parts of the sew and we’ve even included some fabulous hacks!
I also can’t wait to show you all the things I have made for myself! So excited!
We’d love to see what you make with the Opal pants and shorts pattern, or the Opal curve pants and shorts pattern
don’t have the pattern yet?!
Order Opal today in sizes 0-20 or Curve sizes 14-30!
If you have any questions at all please let me know in the comments below or send us an email at hello@megannielsen.com.
