The lovely trousers Paloma by Coralie Bijasson had been on my wish list for at least a year and a half! The arrival of the light gabardines from Atelier Brunette made me want to make a first muslin and then a first pair of Paloma trousers. I chose to make the first in a pretty stretch viscose for a flowing finish.

And it is a great success so surely there will be more because I love it! Why not in these famous gabardines for spring?

I will tell you about my sewing experience, here we go!

The model

I fell for the trousers Paloma by Coralie Bijasson because I find it gathers all the features of the chic trousers as I like them. Indeed, Paloma is a pleated trouser with wide legs and a high waist. It therefore highlights slim waists and is very feminine.

This model is closed with an invisible side zipper.

Practical information for sewing this pattern

Paloma is available on our site from size 34 to 56 and that is really great! Indeed, you will find Paloma in printed version from size 34 to 48 and in PDF version from 34 to 56 thanks to the GT PDF (size 48 to 56).

Paloma is difficult level and suitable for sewers from intermediate to advanced level. It can even be a good pattern to sew your first classic trousers!

In the sewer’s basket

For this model, Coralie invites us to use a wide range of materials, with a medium weight, about 250g. You can use cotton satin, a corduroy, a linen, a light woollen fabric, a light gabardine.... These trousers can therefore be adapted as you wish!

To sew your version, you will therefore need:

- the pattern
- fabrics
- good quality thread of the same color as your fabric
- interfacing suitable for your fabric
- an invisible zipper from 22cm to 40cm
- straight grain interfacing

My supplies

When approving my muslin, I decided I would sew several, but I had to choose! I had in my stash a nice remnant of thick viscose twill with a bit of stretch: a perfect fabric for flowing trousers. It comes from our "joly coupons", our 3m coupons at a nice price. I chose a wild pattern but you will find others, including pretty floral ones.

So I started by sewing these trousers which will be perfect for spring/summer.

I used black Gütermann thread, white straight grain interfacing to reinforce the pocket openings, a brown invisible zipper of 22cm, and H200 interfacing to stiffen the waistband.

Difficulty level and technical points

Paloma is rated difficult level (like many trousers) and is perfect for sewing your first classic trousers. It does not have a fly or welt pockets... the two most technical points in trousers, so do not be afraid to start! Paloma has a side closure with an invisible zipper and has pockets on the sides but not at the back.

The technical points are:
- sewing the darts and pleats
- sewing the crotch seams
- sewing the side pockets
- placing the invisible zipper pull
- sewing the lined waistband
- sewing the hems.

My sewing experience

I took my measurements carefully and chose to make a muslin in calico to make sure that size 36 was the right size for me. I always make a muslin when sewing trousers because I find it is a project that requires more adjustments especially at the curve, the volume of the seat... we are all different 😊

After a quick muslin, I was able to confirm that size 36 fit well, I still had a little doubt about the curve and the waistband because I was going to use a fabric with a bit of stretch compared to my stiff muslin.

Nevertheless, I cut my pattern and I did well!

I find that the sewing steps are well explained by the booklet and at the slightest doubt the video provides the necessary support. I find that assembling the pockets is simple and everything flows smoothly.

The assembly steps for the waistband and the invisible zipper are probably the most difficult because they require precision and patience to get a neat result.

I really enjoyed sewing my Paloma trousers and I am delighted to have chosen this stretch viscose which makes my trousers flowing and soft. They are very pleasant to wear and I find that this choice gives a dancing look. I know I will make more, especially in a slightly stiffer muslin, the light gabardines tempt me well.

In short, trousers are always a great experience and it is very satisfying so if you also want to sew your first trousers, but you do not dare to start alone, we thought of you. The course that many of you requested is finally online with "I sew my first trousers". So, are you ready?

Get your needles ready!