Sewing Workshop Duplicity Culotte

Reviewed by:	Ann Smith	About Ann Smith CA USA Member since: 8/24/02 Reviews written: 155 Sewing skills:Advanced Favored by: 186 people patterns reviewed: 152 Bio: I love to sew for fashion, especially unusual designs. I own way too many patterns and fabric! I hav...full profile
Posted on:	6/29/05 1:44 PM
Pattern Size:	Regular
Project Photo:
Pattern Photo:	Pattern Information provided by Ann Smith
Pattern Rating:	I would definitely sew this pattern again
Pattern Description: Sewing Workshop describes this as a below calf, A-line culotte with drawstring waist and back zipper. Fabric suggestions are light weight silk, rayon, wool, cotton and linen. Pattern Sizing: Sizes included in one pattern are XS through XXL (22) Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yup. Here's the side view. Were the instructions easy to follow? The instructions are fine. This is an extremely simple design so not much instruction is needed. What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I like the slightly unusual style, different but not weird. I really dislike the price for this pattern considering how little is involved (2 main pattern pieces, a few seams, invisible zipper). Most of the simpler SW patterns include 2 garments so this seems overpriced. Fabric Used: Navy linen well aged for 20 years in my stash. This was intended as a muslin but I like it so much I made a top out of the remnants to wear as an outfit. Although the pattern calls for 2 1/4 yards of 60" fabric I only needed 50" total because I cut both ways (w/o) nap. Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: I shortened the length 2 inches to suit my height. I cut out size medium as per my measurements but took the seams in quite a bit after sewing it together. If you have a zipper why have excess ease around the hips and waist? You don't need it to pull on over your hips. Also there is a drawstring waist to pull up the ease. Next time I make this I will eliminate the drawstring and add a few darts. The drawstring is a current style detail that is cute but I always wear my tops out and don't like the bump from the tie. I usually try to tuck that in to make it smooth so why have it at all? Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I will definitely sew this again and I recommend it but.....here is the thing. If you like to cross your legs it is awkward to do in this garment! I wore this the first time to an all day sewing class and realized then how much I like to cross my legs. It is possible but you have to hike the garment up almost to your knees to do it. Conclusion Comfortable (except for the leg crossing thing) pant, easy to fit (no crotch depth worries), that is a little unusual and fun to wear.