So, the pattern testing continues! This time, it's for the Birkin Flares (which are currently live) sister - the Kendall Skinnies. This one is is not available yet because it's still in the testing stages.
These jeans are cut from the top up, based on the revised Birkin Flares pattern. I'll be making another version of the flares soon! I cut the size 31. They are high-rise -- mine are 11.25". I love skinnes with a higher rise. They hold everything in! No muffin top and no butt crack, because crack is wack! Sometimes when you put on a tight pair of skinnies, you think the rise is fine and then you sit down! Butt crack! And I hate when my shirt doesn't stay tucked when I'm sitting or bending. I didn't find that problem with these. They're high enough, but without looking like tapered leg "mom jeans".
The pattern is cut with a 30" inseam. I think this may be standard on all sizes. You can always add or subtract length. I plan to wear these with boots. Even though I don't mind these hitting at the ankles, I will definitely do another pair with a couple of added inches for that "pooling" effect around the ankle for wearing with flats or heels.
For my last pair of jeans, I used that super heavy 12oz Cone Mills stretch denim. I was really curious about it because I'd heard plenty of others raving over it. If I try it again, I will definitely downgrade. To give you an example of what it feels like, it reminds be of back in the day when I use to buy dark denim Levi 501s, and having to break them in. I don't have time to be breaking in denim that stiff, so I'll stick with denim in a lighter weight.
I actually found this denim at my Hancock. It's an 8oz stretch denim with 3% spandex that was a dream to sew and topstitch and it feels wonderful to wear in such a fitted pair of jeans.
My leg opening is 11". I tapered these down almost an inch.
I love plain back pockets. They give jeans a classic look. I can wear these everyday and just switch out tops and shoes, and no one would know the difference. I can't wait to see what other testers think of these, because I love them. Jeans are not difficult to sew, but they are most definitely detailed. And I would not be committing my time ESPECIALLY during the Holiday season at that, if I didn't honestly love them. Because I really need to be finishing up my shopping!
Styling tip; To complete my "classic look", I paired my new dark denim skinnies with my favorite white shirt - Butterick 5526. What's more classic than a camel coat! Mine is Simplicity 1756. And I added a brown studded Michael Kors belt and a pair of ponyhair leopard print slingback pumps.
Would love to know how that denim is holding up after a day of wearing. Any bagging out? Waist still snug? They are really terrific looking.
ReplyDeleteI've had them on since 7 am and they still look like they do in the pics. Only more wrinkles and whiskering at the crotch from sitting. Thanks Cidell!
DeleteI would love to get this pattern as soon as it is available! I have such a hard time getting jeans that fit. This would eliminate many problems! Please let me know!
DeleteWill do Cindy!
DeleteThese are great Erica and just as attractive as the flares.
ReplyDeleteThanks Carolyn!
DeleteLooks great! I'm wondering how long the skinny jean trend will continue with the reappearance of the flare jean. I also prefer the higher rise!
ReplyDeleteI don't think skinnies are ever going anywhere. They just make sense, especially during boot season. Thanks Jenny!
DeleteSuper flattering and the rise looks perfect. I agree on most RTW skinnys are a nice idea until I sit down. And it sounds like you didn't have to do any crotch adjustments for "back fullness" either (another common adj I make...but that one is sort if hit or miss on success.) do the skinnys and flares come in the same pattern?
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure if she's planning to release them together. But it could work because all you need to do is switch out the front and back legs. The instructions are the same. Thanks Fauxgetaboutit!
DeleteThanks! Also, what rivets did you use and did you need special tools to install them?
DeleteEvery one loves well fitting jeans, those jeans are flawless.
ReplyDeleteThanks Melissa!
DeleteThese jeans look amazing Erica,you look amazing!
ReplyDeleteThanks Candice!
DeleteThese jeans fit you perfectly! You look fabulous. I too prefer high waisted jeans...no muffin top - yay!
ReplyDeleteThanks Tomasa!
DeleteBRAVO, these jeans look fantastic and great on you!
ReplyDeleteThanks Levone!
DeleteI love a good, clean back pocket! Also, love this length with the heels. It's young but classic.
ReplyDeleteThanks Sara!
DeleteCRACK IS WACK!! I am rolling!! These are fabulous. Thank you so much!!
ReplyDeleteThanks Lauren!
DeleteLove them! they look fabulous!
ReplyDeleteThanks Joen!
DeletePerfect fit!
ReplyDeleteThanks Eryn!
DeleteThose look great! I love the color of the denim and the fit is fantastic on you. Thanks for sharing so many details. I can't wait to try making my own pants... soon... still nervous about it...soon. ;)
ReplyDeleteThanks Hillary!
DeleteWoow!! at first I thought your were goingf to show us the shirt! Those jeans are great!! perfect color! I wish I could sew as good as you!
ReplyDeleteThanks Lizzy!
DeleteErica, I am new to your blog and I'm so glad I came across your website. I love to sew as well and I'm enjoying all the beautiful clothes you've made. I don't have your lovely sense of style but I'm looking forward to learning to create a wardrobe that will work for me. Keep the inspiration coming, you are a talented woman!
ReplyDeleteThanks Deborah!
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