eHello again!  Today I’m so excited to share my take on the new Patterns for Pirates release – the Linen Loungers! (There’s also a girls’ version, and a bundle for both.)

I made two versions in testing (though I sewed one up two different ways as you will see here).  The pattern is also available as capri and full length pants as well, though I only made shorts since it is HOT (and humid) here in Chicago.  These are a simple yet classy pull on pant, with optional drawstring, drafted for woven fabrics.  The sky is pretty much the limit here, though a medium weight fabric with good drape is preferred (like its namesake linen, chambray, rayon challis, etc.).  Non-apparel fabrics are not recommended (ie: quilting cotton).

I’ll talk about my chambray version first.  I sewed this one up first in testing as well, with my leftovers from my chambray Alder I made last summer (which, by the way, I wear at least weekly this summer!).  These shorts are insanely comfy!  Not to mention, they match everything.

As you can see here, I made the rolled and cuffed version with button tab and elastic waistband (there is also a yoga band option).  I also used the slat pockets and added the drawstring and back pocket.  I really love the polished look of this version in particular, with all of the “bells and whistles”.  The pockets are finished with bias binding and have all enclosed seams.  The cuffs are attached bands and the tabs are just too cute.  What more do you need?!

The chambray I used was not super heavy weight, so it still had ok drape.  It’s not as great as something lighter, but I like the way it is pretty substantial since these are shorts afterall.

I decided to pair these with one of my favorite Pumpkin Spice Dolmans.  This one is made with a super drapey and cozy lightweight sweater knit.  I wore this one a lot this spring since it also matches everything.  There’s truly something to be said for solid pieces in your closet.  I tend to gravitate towards those the most since I am not always in a floral or other bright print mood.

Now on to the next pair!  For these, I chose a much lighter weight white rayon.  This one certainly drapes much differently and changes the silhouette of the shorts, as well as the overall feel.

I also chose to do the cuffs (no tabs), slat pockets and back pocket on this one, as well as the elastic waistband, though I did not add the drawstring this time.  So essentially, these are very similar to the other ones in construction, but the fabric changes the look quite a bit.

My shirt here is a Grainline Studio Penny Raglan, in wonderous rayon spandex from Knitpop.  I looooove the colors on this one (secret: I actually sewed it inside out to get the more muted tones).

The pattern is drafted as a mid-rise pant; I did make some adjustments due to my height.  I always need to add length where it will hit at the crotch curve (not just added to the hem), so I added 1″ for these and found that to be pretty sufficient.  In fact, next time I may only add 1/4″-1/2″ in the front and keep the 1″ in the back.  Bodies are weird!  I’ve realized that pretty much nobody is “normal”.

After I took the first pictures, I made a few changes. 🙂  Instead of flipping the cuffs towards the outside, I flipped them to the inside and took off a bit of the length as well.  Then, I added some lace trim I had laying around.  I’m super pleased with these and have already worn them 3 or 4 times.  Incredibly comfy, yet very cute.

I can’t wait to make more like this, in some more solid rayon.  Definitely a summer staple.  The elastic waist is so comfy, but the lace dresses these up nicely.  Another win!

I decided to pair these with a cropped P4P Free Spirit Tank, which I made last summer with cotton jersey from Girl Charlee.  I’m always down for stripes.

Are you planning to sew up some of your own?  I hope I’ve inspired you, or at the very least informed you of how awesome this pattern is. 🙂  Let me know if you have any question about sewing with woven fabrics.  I promise they are not as scary as they may seem!

Elisabeth

Pattern: P4P Linen Loungers | Fabric: Chambray – So Sew English, Rayon – Vogue Fabrics

Pattern: Pumpkin Spice Dolman | Fabric: Sweater knit – Vogue Fabrics

Pattern: Penny Raglan | Fabric: Rayon Spandex – Knitpop

Pattern: Free Spirit Tank | Fabric: Cotton Jersey – Girl Charlee