Hey everyone!

So, who is really loving the new updated version of Tania with the addition of the slash pockets, but you already own the older version and don’t want to have to purchase another? Good news is – you don’t have to if you don’t want to! The updated version is awesome and also includes the new sizing. But if you’re happy with the old sizing, you can easily add the pockets yourself. And I’m going to show you how! I promise it is super easy.

Just note that there is no one correct size and shape for your pocket, necessarily. So all measurements I include below are approximate. Use your best judgement and use this as a guide.

On the other hand if you have the updated pattern and would like to omit the pockets, i’ll show you how easy it is to remove pockets from the new pattern.

Ok, let’s go!

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One of the best part of the updated version of the Tania culottes is the new pockets! Who doesn’t love pockets?! These ones on Tania are nice and deep, and super easy to put together. Don’t have the new version of Tania, but you do have the old one? Don’t worry, we’ll be showing you how to add them to the old version, too! Stay tuned for that post. 

So, like I mentioned before, the instruction booklet has you do the pockets first and then the pleats, but I chose to do these steps in the opposite order. Whichever you choose really doesn’t make a difference, it won’t change anything about the construction.

Now let’s get to those pockets! The construction is the same for all views. So whichever version you choose to make, this is the tutorial for you.

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Who is ready to get going on their Tania culottes?! I’m going to get us started with the pleats. The pattern instructions have you do the pockets first and then the pleats, but I like to get the pleats out of the way in the beginning. Whichever order you’d like to do them is fine and doesn’t change anything about the construction!

Ok, let’s go!

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Let’s talk Tania variation ideas!

My favorite thing about the Tania culottes is that you could make it work with a variety of different fabrics. Personally, I prefer the shorter version (view A) and the fuller knee length version (view B) in lighter fabrics like challis. And I love the longer less volume versions (views C&D) in medium weight fabrics with a little more structure, like twill. I just love the looks those create! BUT… why not switch it up?

• Create the shorter version in a heavier wool to wear over tights during colder months.
• Or make a midi length version in crepe de chine for a really floaty, ethereal look.
• Take it one step farther by using a sheer chiffon and adding a lining underneath (simply use the same pattern pieces, just raise the crotch inseam by 1/4″ on both the front and the back). Wouldn’t that be so dreamy?!
• And one word: leather. Can someone please make a leather/faux leather version like that top middle photo? Seriously in love. Or maybe just use a contrasting leather for the waistband only – that could be cute, too!

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A few other ideas:

• add some belt loops to the waistband and a matching (or mismatching) sash belt
• Really not a fan of zippers? Omit it and add some elastic to the waistband instead (we have an old tutorial for this listed below)
• The new pattern version offers 3 different length options, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop there! Lengthen those babies to full length for a palazzo pant look. I’m pretty obsessed with that printed look above.
• Try some color blocking, or add lace or a fun trim to the hem.

What do you think? Do you have any other fun ideas? Or have you already created your own unique Tania culottes that everyone needs to know about? Share some ideas in the comments below!

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// LOOKING FOR MORE TANIA POSTS? //

Here’s the full list of Tania posts and tutorials:

• Inspiration and ideas (this post!)
• Pleats
• Pockets
• Adding pockets to the old version of Tania
• Side seam and waistband
• Zipper
• Waistband facing two ways
• Bonus : lapped zipper with waistband facing
• Inseam and hem

Here are some older Tania posts you might find useful :

• How to lengthen the Tania culottes
• How to lengthen a hem with lace
• How to make midi Tania culottes (if you have the old pattern and want to make View C or D without purchasing the new version)
• Variation: Tania culottes with elastic back and side seam pockets

And some older tutorials that could help!:

• Six seam finishes and when to use them
• Clipping vs. notching
• Three ways to sew a rolled hem
• Evening out a circle hem

Don’t have the Tania sewing pattern yet?! Order Tania today! We absolutely love seeing what you make, so don’t forget to tag your creations with #MNtania and @megannielsenpatterns when sharing on social media, and check out what everyone else is up to!

Hey everyone! Holly here!

Who are our Tania lovers out there? *raises hand*. I know the Tania culottes are not a new pattern, but we’ve actually never done a proper sewalong! What?! With the release of the new, updated pattern – which includes the new sizing, some new versions, and the addition of pockets, it seemed like the perfect time to go over every detail!

So with that said, here’s the full list of Tania posts and tutorials coming up:

• Inspiration and ideas
• Pleats
• Pockets
• Bonus: adding pockets to the old version of Tania
• Side seam and waistband
• Zipper (invisible zipper)
• Waistband facing – two ways
• Bonus : lapped zipper with waistband facing
• Inseam and hem

Here are some older Tania posts you might find useful :

• How to lengthen the Tania culottes
• How to lengthen a hem with lace
• How to make midi Tania culottes (if you have the old pattern and want to make View C or D without purchasing the new version)
• Variation: Tania culottes with elastic back and side seam pockets

And some older tutorials that could help!:

• Six seam finishes and when to use them
• Clipping vs. notching
• Three ways to sew a rolled hem
• Evening out a circle hem

Don’t have the Tania sewing pattern yet?! Order Tania today! We absolutely love seeing what you make, so don’t forget to tag your creations with #MNtania and @megannielsenpatterns when sharing on social media, and check out what everyone else is up to!