I have another Winslow hack to share today! This one is a little bit more complex than the elastic waisted versions we have been playing with, but I think for anyone interested in this paperbag waist style, the Winslow is a great base to work with. I have paired this hack with my latest True Bias Ogden Cami and I am loving the combo!

What fabric should I use for this hack? Unlike the original Winslow pattern, this hack is well suited to more structured fabrics like cotton twill, cotton shirting, linen, and even lightweight denim. I used a light cotton twill here and the stiffness really helps to showcase the pleats.

Can I make the culottes or pants length? Yes! I made the shorts length here, but any view of the Winslow Culottes will work for this hack.

Let’s get started!

We are also going to alter the front and back pieces slightly before cutting. You can cut the pockets as-is if you want to keep them in. We are not going to cut the original waistband piece, but we are going to draft a new waistband facing.

Construct the culottes as indicated in the instructions up to step 13, minus the pleats. You can opt to include or not include the inseam pockets; I decided to include them in mine.

 

Starting the pleats a little bit down from the top of the pants allows the pleats to flare out at the waist, creating the paperbag waist effect.

Insert the zipper as indicated in the instructions. I like to hand sew the facing to the zipper with the edge folded inside. You can also hand tack the pleats down or you can leave them loose and simply adjust them into place when you put the garment on.

This is one way to make a paperbag waist! You can add details like belt loops and a waist tie, or sew a channel for a belt or tie. I like the sleek look without any embellishments.

I hope you like this Winslow Culottes hack. Let me know if you have any questions!