In today’s session, I demonstrated a new pants design featuring an innovative side drape detail that can be adjusted for different effects.
I showed how manipulating the drape placement and length dramatically changes the silhouette, working with both jersey and woven fabrics to explore the possibilities.
Demonstration Steps:
- I started by covering the dress form with plastic wrap (my pro tip for easier fabric manipulation!)
- Used jersey fabric as my first sample: 81-82cm total width with a 52-53cm side seam placement
- Created three variations of the side drape:
- Long version extending to the knee
- Mid-thigh length with controlled volume
- Shorter version with focused draping at hip area
- Added design refinements:
- Optional pin tucks to direct drape movement
- Slight forward shift of drape from side seam
- Wide leg variation while maintaining drape
- Clean crotch shaping for proper fit
Questions & Answers:
- Q: Why did you cover the dress form with plastic wrap?
- A: This makes the fabric slide more easily, just like it would on our skin. The fabric won’t stick to the form, making it much easier to manipulate the drape.
- Q: Can we add pockets to this design?
- A: Yes! The side seam where we create the drape gives us a perfect opportunity to add a pocket.
- Q: Will this work with non-stretchy fabric?
- A: Next week we’ll explore this same technique with woven fabric. The drape will behave differently, giving us new creative possibilities.
Next week I’ll take this draped concept and develop it into a proper pattern. We’ll create an original trouser design that you won’t see anywhere else – it’ll be uniquely ours!
