Vintage Sewing: Secret Pants (1930s/1940's Culottes)

Did I make another skirt again?

Nope, they’re secret pants! (Thanks to Rachel Masky coining that phrase.)

As a child of the 80’s I’ve long been a fan of culottes. They just hit different than a palazzo or the like. Palazzos look like I’m wearing blocky curtains and further shrink my already short legs. While I could have adjusted the length on these to have a higher hem, my initial fitting looked decent so I left the length. I’m actually not a fan of crop or capri pants. Or pants in general really due to fit issues. But I do like these and I will definitely be making more.

Adjustments: The pattern piece for the placket was missing. I had to recreate that.

Pattern: Vogue Patterns 7339 (Late 30’s early 40’s) No date is provided oddly.

Fabric: Black lightweight corduroy. I had a limited amount so I do have the grain going two different ways. But I made it work.

Top: A knit mock neck. I also made that last week. It’s a Charm Patterns by Gertie Patreon exclusive Barbie Top. I highly recommend this pattern for learning to sew knits. I get many compliments on the several Barbie tops I’ve made.

I love a good power “Captain Morgan” stance.

My sewing journey continues to enlighten me on garments that best fit my frame. It really is a shame as a society the idea of having clothes made for you on a regular basis fell out of the norm. Not only to have clothes that were made for your frame, but to have a quality long lived item. Fast fashion is the devil.

Now, I really am going to make some more skirts for spring.

xo-Thea