More Simplicity 1887 shorts

I do love a good TNT, so it shouldn't be too surprising that I'm here blogging my eighth and ninth makes from the Simplicity 1887 pattern.  In 2016, I used the pattern to make four pairs of shorts and two skirts (see here and here). Those items constituted the backbone of my summer wardrobe for three years.  Now none of them fit (and some are looking a bit raggedy for wear), including the black linen skirt I made from the pattern earlier this year.

As I've noted before, this pattern runs crazy big.  My current measurements are 31.5 waist/41.5 hip, putting me into an 18 (which has a finished hip measurement of 49.5").  I cut a 14 (which finished at 45.5"),  shortened the front crotch 1" and scooped out the back curve 3/4", lowering it 1/4" at the inseam.  I also lengthened the shorts 1.5".

The green pair is made from the leftovers of this awesome stretch linen/viscose woven that I used to make this Portfolio dress.  I love the fit of these shorts so much. I went shopping with my sister-in-law shortly after returning to Virginia, and I tried on several pairs of shorts.  I found nothing that I would even consider wearing in public - the fit was just terrible on all of them.  I guess this is why I spent 24 years not wearing shorts - I've never had much luck with them in RTW.

I made the black pair in preparation for our trip to Cartagena over Memorial Day weekend.  I managed to squeeze the pattern pieces out of a long, narrow remnant of cupro twill that was leftover from my latest Calyer pants by piecing the back waistband and using a different scrap fabric for the front yoke facing.  The remnant was about 2 yards long and 20" wide at the narrowest part. 

This pattern features front pleats and pockets, a flat front yoke and an elasticated back waist.  Some people have eliminated the pleats on their versions. I've been meaning to try this, but have not gotten around to it yet.

I slimmed down the leg a little on this pair; the weight of the fabric made them hang differently than the green pair.

I had grand visions of gorgeous photos in the walled city, but I had two sick children during the trip and no good pictures were taken.  Sad, because there are some beautiful photos to be taken in Cartagena.  Instead, you get photos from my dad's front yard.

I'm sure I'll be back next year with a few more pairs of this beloved TNT pattern.  As always, thanks for reading, and see you next time!