This seersucker shorts are my last official summer make. In the warmer months, shorts are one of my favorite garments to wear on days when I don't go to the office. And if I'm going to be lounging around or just running errands, a drawstring waist is perfection. These have the fun addition of a paper bag style waistband and curved hem.
This pattern has been on my list for a long time. It’s the Spring Shorts by Pattern Runway, a free pattern from Peppermint Magazine. (By the way the latest pattern from Peppermint is this peplum top by In the Folds and I’m dying to try it.) This was the first time I’ve made a pattern by Pattern Runway. Makes me think I should check out their other patterns too. Ah! The sewing list never ends!!!
I couldn’t find finished measurements listed in the pattern which would have been nice because I was between size 12 and 14 in the hip. I ended up cutting between the two and cutting the length at the largest size. The hems are finished with a facing and I had to redraw that to fit my new hemline. The shorts fit fine but it would be ok if there was a touch more ease at the hips. The length works well too, I definitely wouldn’t go any shorter (I’m 5’11”).
The fabric is a slate black seersucker from Joann’s. I found a piece in the remnant bin a few months ago but it wasn’t quite enough for shorts. Then I found a second piece and I had enough. To my surprise the seersucker is thinner and more sheer than some other seersucker I have in my stash. So to prevent panty show through, I actually underlined these babies. In the past, I’ve had problems with underlining being a bit shifty. I had read that hand basting the underlining to the fashion fabric helps prevent the shifting. So then I hand basted! Very unlike me to do fussy steps like that but the hand basting really worked. And just look how pretty the insides of the shorts are! There is one little spot by the hem where I burned the underlining fabric. Always a bummer but no one will know about those little holes. :)
These were pretty straightforward to sew. I liked that the pockets and pocket bags were all in one piece, created by a fold at the front edge (see the photo above of the inside of the shorts to see the pockets). The waistband of these shorts is a paper bag style that sits at the waist. It’s a fun style and probably works best with a tucked in or cropped shirt so you can show off those waistband ruffles.
These shorts are pretty similar to the Alexandria shorts I made recently with similar fit and style lines. So obviously it’s a style that I like. haha. I really like trying out new patterns by different pattern companies because it's fun to see how different styles fit and to learn from the different construction techniques. The more you try different styles, the more you'll learn about what works for you body and your lifestyle.
