Hi friends

The Opal pants by Megan Nielsen  were the first pair of pants I made this year. I was so thrilled to have been able to test this pattern. Incidentally, seven years ago, it was with Megan’s tutorials that I first began my foray into women’s sewing. The majority of 2013 was spent pouring over her maternity top tutorials and recycling my husband’s shirts to make almost all of my maternity wear. Her blog and tutorial provided valuable sewing knowledge along with some really amazing techniques such as shirring which gave me the confidence to continue sewing as a hobby (Scroll all the way down to see some of my pictures from that time). 

Back to the pattern review now 🙂 The Opal Pants and Shorts Pattern comes in sizes 0 – 20  and sizes 14 – 30 are available as the Opal Curve Pants and Shorts here. They are relaxed fit high waisted pants that can be made in several different lengths. I made the tapered leg pants, while some other views include wide leg pants, shorts as well as knee length shorts. Waistband options include a paper bag waist and a regular waist with optional belt and belt loops. Inseam pockets, patch pockets and back pockets are also included. All the options are interchangeable on all views making this a truly versatile pattern. 

The recommended fabrics include a range of bottom weight fabrics with drape such as linen, viscose, rayon, tencel, or fabrics with structure such as wool and chambray. So, these pants can be as casual or as dressy as you please and can be sewn year long in seasonally appropriate fabrics. I would love to make a pair in wool when the weather starts to get cool again. 

The fabric I used is a linen that I got from India last summer. It is simply amazing in how it feels, and drapes. The fabric has such a lovely depth in color because the weave has both purple and pink threads in it. I am so happy that I picked this fabric for these pants because I am absolutely in love with how they turned out.

Based on my hip and waist measurements (36″ hips and 27″ waist), I picked size 4 for the pants grading out to size 6 at the waist. I also shortened the pants by 1.5” and I am really happy with the fit.

The instructions and illustrations are detailed and well explained. I love how the inseam pockets which happen to be quite roomy do not add bulk in any way.

Seeing as I sewed and photographed these back in January, I paired them with a turtle neck tee. It’s the Nikko top and Dress by true bias made in rayon spandex. I’ve worn these pants with tank tops and button up blouses as well but I think they’d look amazing paired with the new Olive top and would love to try that pairing as well.

I love these pants so much and have nothing but amazing things to say about this pattern. I am excited to try another pair soon, perhaps in knee length this time. Thank you for stopping by! 

And here are some fun pictures I mentioned in the beginning 🙂