Funky Opal Trousers (Pattern Review)

There is no secret that I really like Megan Nielsen’s Patterns*. The main reason is because my body shape seems to fit their standard and I do not need make too many changes to the patterns to get the best fit for me.

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My favourite view from Opal Pants and Shorts pattern* is view A (tapered leg, with paper bag waist). For my first version of this pattern I chose to use a Rose & Hubble skeletons cotton poplin* which reminds me of Mexico’s Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Because of my choice I fabric, I was a little worried for a bit that the finished trousers will not suit my frame. I mean really, what was I thinking? This could have gone terribly wrong.

Surprisingly, the trousers turned out great. I actually like them a lot. It is true they are not office appropriate but I haven’t been into the office in over a year so it doesn’t matter anyway. And guess what, they look pretty with or without hills, which pleases me a lot. Originally I wanted to make a red tie for them, but I had no red cotton fabric to make one. Basically, you can choose any colour from the fabric and make a contrasting tie.

Sewing Summary:

Pattern: pdf version Opal Pants and Shorts pattern* from Megan Nielsen’s Patterns*. Opal is a relaxed fit high waist pants set with mix and match options. Pattern includes paper bag or standard elastic waistband, inseam or patch pockets, back pockets, belt loops, an optional belt and multiple lengths. View A is a pair of tapered leg pants with paper bag waist and belt. View B is a pair of wide leg pants with elastic waist. View C is a pair of shorts with patch pockets and paper bag waist. View D is a pair of knee length shorts with elastic waist and belt.

Sizing: regular 0-20 , curve 14-30

Fabric: 2 m of Rose & Hubble skeletons cotton poplin*

Notions: 70 cm 3 cm wide elastic.

Modifications: For this one, cut a straight size 8. The only change I made was to cut the bottom on the regular inseam rather than the tall inseam line (I am only 1.57m or 5ft2 tall). I made view A because I felt that the the tapered leg will suit my frame better.

Instructions: I did not use them much, mainly to check out the seam allowances and glance at the diagrams. I have the PDF version of the pattern. The pattern is layered which means you can print only the size/s you want not all of them. Also the instructions on how to print are clear and you have the option to print specific pages to get make the view

Fit: I am super happy with the fit.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?: yes

Watch out for: n/a

Make Again?: yes. I will make these trousers over and over again as they are classy and suitable for a variety of fabrics. I’ll try the

The only annoying part of a paper bag waist is that you either need to wear a cropped top (which is a No No for me ) or tuck in your longer tops or wear a bodysuit. So, styling might be a little limited. However, apart from that I like these trousers a lot. I know I’ll make them again and again.