Sizes XS-3XL
The emergence of pants as acceptable public attire for women began in the early 1930s, largely due to the enormous influence of the movies and the high-profile movie stars.
Folkwear offers this sewing pattern for three history-makers: Knickers, Trousers and Shorts. The Knickers (c. 1931) feature a button-front fly closure and side pockets. They are pleated below the knee into shaped cuffs with button closures.
The straight silhouette of the Trousers (c. 1940) is created by a high, wide waistband, back darts and front pleats. They have a zipper closure on the left side and an on-seam pocket on the right. Trousers fall gracefully straight from the fullest part on the hip to ankle-length.
Our Shorts (c. 1940) have a back zipper closure and inverted box pleats at the front and back for a smooth fit through the hip, releasing to add comfortable and flattering fullness at the legs.
Suggested fabrics: For the Knickers, choose medium to heavyweight fabrics such as cotton, linen, wool or blends in broadcloth, homespun, or twill; also napped fabrics such as corduroy and velveteen. For the Trousers, choose medium-weight, soft fabrics with drape such as wool gabardine or challis; also cotton or corduroy. For the Shorts, choose soft or slightly crisp, medium-weight fabrics such as wool challis, cotton, linen, rayon, or blends.
The PDF pattern has several files: instructions, copy shop (36 and A0) for each pants, and print at home.
LEARN MORE:
Making the fly and fly facings for the button-front fly of the Knickers.
See how Esi made the Knickers into long Pants, Part 1. This also shows how she made the pockets larger.
See how Esi make the Knickers into long pants, Part 2. This also shows how she modified the front fly to be a zipper rather than buttoned fly.