Everything I love in a pant pattern - slouchy fit, dropped crotch, cropped length, and deep pockets!
I remember hanging out for this pattern to be released from Tessuti last year. I just knew that it suited my style to a tee, featuring everything I love in a pant - a slouchy fit, dropped crotch, pockets (a must!), cropped length (great if you are a little on the shorter side like I am), subtle detailing created by top stitching, and a wide elasticised waistband.
Plus, the pattern lends itself perfectly to linen (my favourite!).
I wear my pair of Naia pants a lot and I am already planning a second make. So I thought I would share a bit of a review of this super comfortable and versatile pant pattern from Tessuti.
The makers: Tessuti
Tessuti always brings back a lot of memories for me, having spent many a day trawling the racks of their Surrey Hills store while studying fashion design in Sydney. But, in case you haven't come across them, here is a little background.
Tessuti Fabrics was established in 1992 in Chatswood, which is just north of Sydney CBD. The founder Colette Guanta comes from three generations of dressmakers and manufacturers, and she studied design herself.
Tessuti have bricks and mortar stores in Sydney and Melbourne, and their products can be bought through the Tessuti online store, and various other stockists internationally.
They not only stock patterns but beautiful, quality designer fabrics, which are purchased both within Australia and internationally. Their range is ever-changing, so be sure to snap up what you may have your eye on!
When it comes to their patterns, what I love most is that they are done by hand. Whilst I can understand that some may not like this, preferring the computerised version, I love the way it takes me back to my own pattern making days, down to the notches and labelling, and provides that human touch we so often lack in this world.
What's included in the pattern?
The Naia pant pattern is available in paper and PDF format in sizes 6-16 or 16-22. The pattern itself features just one version with the optional addition of a patch pocket.
I purchased the paper version, which came with A0 paper pattern sheets, featuring 7 pattern pieces in total, and a 12 page A4 paper instruction booklet. I found the instructions to be broken down into really easy to follow steps, with accompanying clear, coloured, and labeled photographs.
What's involved in sewing these pants?
The Naia pant sits somewhere in-between the beginner and intermediate level. The pattern will have you attaching a wide waistband (approx. 3.2cm) before inserting elastic, sewing angled pockets with shields, an (optional) oversized patch pocket, and long, deep front pleats.
The pattern also features a lot of top-stitching, featured at the waistband, crotch, pockets and side seams. While the top-stitching is a little time consuming, it is well worth it, as it becomes a really nice detail considering the pants are rather minimal in design.
The fit
The Naia pant is a relaxed style of pant, so they are definitely a little more forgiving when it comes to fit than other styles. This slouchy fit is further added to by a dropped crotch, deep pleats and an only slightly tapered leg.
The inclusion of a rather wide elastic at the waistband is not only a nice addition aesthetically but it is super comfortable, sitting really nicely at the high waist. The use of elastic also gives you the freedom to easily adjust the waist according to your measurements and preferences.
These trousers are also cropped in length, which is perfect if you are a little shorter. I come in at approximately 155cm and these finish just above my ankle. The pattern does include an almost 4cm hem allowance, so there is that little bit of room to play around with if you are that bit taller.
Fabric
The suggested fabric is medium weight cotton, denim or linen, corduroy, or wool, and is obviously not suitable for stretch wovens or knits. I naturally opted for my favourite, linen, selecting the Washed Linen II - Black from Blackbird fabrics. This 100% linen fabric has a lived in feel and a subtle texture, with the washed finish just adding to the pants relaxed look.
The patterns does also call for lining for the pockets if making in a thicker fabric. I used self fabric for mine in the linen version, finding that this wasn't too bulky.
Styling
These pants are so versatile. I find myself easily dressing them up or down, and wearing all year round.
For a casual look, they are great simply paired with a t-shirt and a pair of trainers or sandals. Or to accentuate the gathered waist and loose style, opt for a more fitted tee in a contrast colour.
For a dressier look, I love to colour block my outfit (in this instance all black) and don a contrast pair of platform sandals.
For those cooler months, I simply add some tights underneath.
Please get in touch or leave me a comment. I would love to know your thoughts on this review. Maybe I have inspired yout to check out the Naia pant pattern.
Thanks for reading.
Emma xx
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