Keeping it going with my DIY casual corporate-chic wear for my summer style, I made these bag-waist pants. Actually, this is my third time with this McCall’s pattern M7726 and the third time’s a charm.
My first attempt was a pair of shorts. The second was a version with wide legs that pair with an elegant red cape blazer I made. I had a special occasion focused on Women’s Heart Health and wanted something unique. I LOVE that cape blazer and it goes with so much…but I honestly don’t wear the pants that much.
But I bought into the whole bag-waist thing as I was determined to get it right. So this was my third. Hot dang for when grit pays off.
I sewed these up in a light weight khaki/sateen from….mmm….I really need to start labeling the source of my fabric. O.k. but anyway, it was a good selection for this pattern. The fabric has structure without too much volume from the pleating and can be tamed with a good press…but it’s 100% cotton. Cotton relaxes when worn and it changes the fit on these, but that’s something I can live with.
With that said, let’s jump right into why fit compulsive people such as myself really need to either 1.) seek help or 2.) drink Peach Bellini’s before they sew. It took me half the day in adjustments just to get the fit I wanted.
Construction Details
- I removed about 2″ to shorten the crotch depth. One because I’m short-waisted and two because the pleating is so tall it will sit under my rib cage if not adjusted.
- I added a curvy bottom adjustment I discovered on a pair of Vogue pattern pants that I have been using lately. It adds additional room to the bottom and then tapers nicely back into the waistline. Translate, it fits your curves to show them off. Lol. Sewing goal achieved!
- I removed quite a bit along the side seams to get a snugger fit through the thigh and knee. This adjustment is crucial! It takes the pants from being frumpy to cropped and cute.
I’m wearing this with the ever popular McCall’s M7803 in a light weight cotton. I would blog about her but I haven’t perfected the fit on her yet. Wink.
This is piece No. 2 of my corporate wear paired with piece No. 1., McCall’s M7387. On to the next project.
Wow! I just bought that pattern today, i love your Version! I am going to look for that curvy bottom adjustment. I think you took in alot on the sides, looks greAt! Very impressed!
Thank you so much! yes, I took in quite a bit at the sides to achieve the look I wanted. But the construction process allows it to be easily done.