Self Assembly Required

DIY dressmaking + crafts with Emily

Classic shorts for summer 

I really wanted some great high waisted black shorts for this summer. Something classic that could be worn for many years to come (provided I don’t change size!). 

I found this pattern from Butterick – the B6354 which seemed to fit my brief! It’s from the Patterns by Gertie range and as well as the shorts, comes with a pattern for a bolero, bustier and sarong skirt.

The pattern features a high waist with front and back waist darts, an invisible zip to close and a narrow waistband. It looked simple and classic. Just what I wanted!

For the fabric, I used the black fabric I had left over from making my cat themed Cleo pinafore dress. It has a velvety texture and is quite heavy which I thought would work well for shorts. 

I cut a straight size 14 with the intention of taking it in as needed but it actually fitted well without alterations. There was a lot less ease that expected which is not a bad thing, just surprising. Usually I have to take out excess from the waist when I use patterns from the big 4. Either there’s less ease I’ve put on a lot of weight! (I’m blaming my Easter chocolate for that one…)

They were super quick to sew up – there was nothing difficult or out of the ordinary with these. I finished all my edges with my overlocker to keep everything neat and tidy. The zip at the back goes up to the waistband and the waistband overlaps at the back and is finished with a clasp.


I’m pretty happy with how these turned out! I think the shape suits my body type pretty well. 

I wish I’d put in some pockets though! That’s going to bother me later. I might need to add on some patch pockets on the back…

Everything is better with pockets. 

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9 Comments

  1. They look good – amazing they just fit right out of the envelope. Sorry, but I think any pockets would spoil their simple, classic lines.

    1. Thanks! I wish I’d put in inseam pockets when I was making it. They would’ve been much less intrusive than patch ones!

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