It all started when I saw this cute Simplicity separates pattern from the 1960s on Etsy. Everything in it is cute! I especially like the top and pleated skirt, but so far I've only sewn the shorts. I used some medium-heavy weight, stretch, orange/red gingham that I won in a giveaway from Sally over at The Quirky Peach (thanks, girl!).
The shorts were cut and sewn up in no time (just a few hours) and I didn't really even follow the instructions - I just went for it! I ended up taking in the side seams a bit, which also happens to me on fitted skirts, because my hips don't form that perfect, curved, bottom-half-of-an-hourglass shape. They're a little more straight. The finished shorts don't fit superbly, but now that I've completed my first pair I can always make more adjustments for the next time around.
Yes, I made a wonky waistband-zipper meeting (I only had a mustard yellow zipper), but it still functions. I also got the buttonhole sewn on a little high, but it works. My only real problem is that the fit is too ...bulky. It looks ok when I'm standing still, but as soon as I shift my weight or take a step, this pair of shorts tuns into a creepy, old lady-ish, unflattering, bunchy sack of fabric. I didn't have the heart to publish any of those bunchy photos, but maybe someday... For now, these shorts will live in the murky area between muslin and finished project. They might get some wear over a swim suit, but we'll have to see.
Anyway, despite their imperfections these shorts still make me feel PUMPED that I sewed them at all. As soon as I finished them, Duke curled up on my sewing machine foot pedal, nice and cozy-like, to celebrate.
Have you all made shorts or pants or anything (is there anything else?) with a crotch? Was it a mixed success like mine, or did you get it right on your first try?
