Bombay Pants
In this sewing class, you’ll learn how to sew hippie-style pants that overlap at the front, with your choice of a long or short version. Patterns in sizes 34 to 56 are included!
Project preview
This video is for members
Join Lulu Ferris to watch the complete class and sew along at your own pace.
What you’ll make
Sew fluid wrap-style pants with overlapping leg panels, an elastic waistband, and ties at the front. The open sides create movement and an asymmetrical drape as you walk.
The pattern includes long and short versions. The relaxed design works best in a lightweight fabric with enough drape for the overlapping panels to move freely.
Style the Bombay Pants with the Basic Tank Top or Front-Knot Boatneck Top.
What you’ll learn in this class
- Stabilize the rise and waistband of a fluid woven fabric.
- Keep the mirrored front and back pieces correctly oriented.
- Finish the long open leg edges cleanly.
- Arrange and secure the overlapping panels at the waist.
- Construct and attach the elastic casing.
- Insert and secure the elastic without twisting it.
- Sew, turn, and attach the front ties.
Fabric choices
Choose a lightweight fabric with fluid drape. Suitable woven options named in the class include viscose or rayon, gauze, satin, crepe, and muslin.
A lightweight knit such as viscose jersey or modal is another option. Because these knits may not fray, the class discusses when the open leg edges can be left without the woven-fabric finish.
Make it your own
Choose the full-length version for more coverage or the short version for a breezier garment. The front ties add a finished detail at the elastic waist.
For help preparing the files, see How to Use a PDF Sewing Pattern.
Pattern sizes and measurements
The pattern covers sizes 34/36 through 54/56. The listed body measurements span a 64–110 cm waist and a 90–136 cm hip.
The listed total length for the long pants ranges from 101 cm in size 34/36 to 106 cm in size 54/56.
The video class covers both lengths, including the overlapping panels, elastic waistband, and front ties. Printable A4 and A0 pattern files are included.
Pattern & materials
Patterns are included with membership
Active members can download every available PDF and materials list.
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