Sewing Pattern Roundup: Pleated Trousers

I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect pleated pants sewing pattern recently. I keep seeing beautiful versions showing up on my Pinterest, and I decided I’d like to make a pair or two. They feel on-trend for right now, but at the same time they’re such a classic piece that I don’t think will ever go out of style. Plus, they feel like a bit of a step up from the more casual elastic-waist pants that I usually make.

I had considered drafting my own pattern, but when I did a bit of searching I found so many beautiful patterns already available that could work for what I’m looking for. In this post I wanted to share all of the pleated trouser patterns I came across with you, as well as my inspiration photos and which patterns I ended up deciding to make! Let’s start with the inspiration.

The Inspiration

The first pair of pants I came across that I want to try and recreate are these linen trousers from Na Nin. I love the deep pleats and the 90’s-inspired silhouette, and how they’re styled with a rolled up hem. I think these would be perfect in a heavier weight linen for spring and summer.

Image via Na Nin
Image via Na Nin

The second pair of pleated trousers I really like are these ones from Ozma. These feel a little bit more menswear-inspired. I can picture wearing them with everything from sandals to sneakers for everyday, to heels for a more dressed-up vibe.

The Patterns

So now let’s take a look at some patterns that I think would work to recreate either or both of these styles. I have two frontrunners that I’m planning on making, so let’s start with those.

Untitled Thoughts Chandler Trousers

The first pattern that I decided to make is the Chandler Trousers pattern by Untitled Thoughts. I think the fit of these is exactly what I’m going for with my first pair, and I already have some white 7oz linen in my stash that I plan to use for them. They feature slanted pockets, dual front pleats, and a partial elastic waistband at the back, although you can purchase an extension for the pattern to have a flat waistband all the way around. The pants are originally designed with a faux fly, but there’s a hack on the blog for how to add an actual zip fly so I’m thinking I’ll go that route. But I think I’ll leave the partial elastic in the waistband just for some extra comfort! Size range: US Size 0-30, UK 4-34, EU 30-60.

Image via By Hand London

By Hand London Jackie Trousers

The next pattern that I thought would be a good dupe for my second pair is the Jackie Trouser by By Hand London. I love the length and loose fit of these. They’re also a more traditional trouser pattern with a flat waistband and zippered fly. I have some black deadstock wool suiting in my stash that I think would be absolutely perfect for this pair! Size range: UK 6 / US 2 up to UK 24 / US 20.

So those are the two patterns that I’ve added to my queue and set aside fabric for. I’m thinking I’ll make the first pair sometime soon for spring and summer, and the second pair I might leave more for fall. But even though I decided on those two patterns for myself, I still came across many others in my search that I also thought looked great, so let’s take a look at those ones now.

Image via Lenaline

Lenaline Stas Trousers

The Stas Trousers by Lenaline feature a straight leg with front pleats, a shaped waistband with belt loops, and a zip fly. The pattern is available in both French and English. Size range: EU 34-56, UK 6-28, US 2-24.

Image via Vikisews

Vikisews Karen Trousers

The Karen Trousers by Vikisews feature a straight leg with front pleats and pressed creases, slanted pockets, a classic fly front with hook-and-eye fasteners for the waistband, and a floor-skimming length. Size range: EU 34-46.

Image via Fibre Mood

Fibre Mood Peaches Trousers

The Peaches Trousers by Fibre Mood are high-waisted with a relaxed-fit straight leg and feature side pockets as well as optional back welt pockets. Size range: 32-58.

The Sewing Workshop Hollywood Pants

The Hollywood Pants by The Sewing Workshop are a classic-fit trouser with straight legs and fly front. They feature front pleats, single welt front pockets and a partial lining, which would make them a great option for wool or wool-blend fabrics. Size range: 6-26.

Image via PH7 Patterns

PH7 Patterns Bogan Trousers

The Bogan Trousers by PH7 Patterns are a sophisticated trouser with tailored lines and a simple button and zip fly closure. Size range: hip 34″-55″.

Wide Leg Pleated Pants Sewing Patterns

In my search, I also came across a few patterns for pleated trousers with a wider fit through the leg. While this wasn’t the style I was going for myself, I thought others might prefer this kind of style so I figured I’d include them here as well.

Paradise Patterns Protea Pants

The Protea Pants from Paradise Patterns features a wide-leg fit, zippered fly, and curved waistband. They also have the option of front pleats or a flat front and two different waistband finishes. Size range: sizes 00-30 (hip 35-61″).

Bella Loves Patterns Billy Trousers

The Billy Trousers by Bella Loves Patterns are a loose-fitting pair of wide leg trousers featuring front pleats, a zip fly, and side slash pockets. I also love the invisible hem detail on these. Size range: 6 to 22 UK,  34 to 50 EU,  2 to 18 US.

The Modern Sewing Co. Spring Trousers

The last pattern I have to share with you is the Spring Trousers pattern from The Modern Sewing Co. They feature a voluminous wide leg fit and have a semi-elasticated waist. Size range: UK 4 – 28.

Which of these patterns would you most like to make? Let me know in the comments below! As always, thanks for reading. Until next time,

Emily Lightly

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  • Yesss, pleats are back in action! All of your inspiration for sewing patterns are great. However, I prefer the Paradise Patterns Protea Pants. Though, since you’re still gonna remake some of the details, that pattern has more options and a curved waistband which I think would look great.