Five Wide Leg Trouser Patterns for a Modern Handmade Wardrobe
Wide leg trousers continue to be a key style for modern wardrobes, offering a balance of comfort, structure and effortless style. From softly tailored silhouettes to more relaxed, voluminous shapes, they are a versatile option that works beautifully across seasons and fabric choices.
If you’re looking to sew your own, I’ve rounded up five wide leg trouser sewing patterns that lend themselves perfectly to a contemporary handmade wardrobe.
Browse our full collection of sewing patterns for modern handmade wardrobes.
1. The Alba Pants by Tessuti Fabrics
The Alba Pants are a modern wide leg trouser pattern featuring a subtly curved, cropped silhouette. With a flat front, elasticated back and clean finish through the waist, they strike a perfect balance between comfort and structure.
This is a highly versatile pattern that works beautifully in linen, cotton twill or lightweight denim, making it a reliable choice for everyday wear.
2. Zero Waste Block Pants & by Birgitta Helmersson
The Zero Waste Block Pants offer a relaxed wide leg silhouette combined with an innovative, sustainable approach to pattern cutting. Designed to use the full width of fabric, this pattern minimises waste while creating a thoughtfully proportioned garment.
With soft front pleats, an elasticated waistband and distinctive seam detailing, these trousers feel both modern and design-led. A skirt variation is also included, adding to the versatility of this pattern.
I particularly enjoyed making the Zero Waste Block Pants, I loved everything about the zero waste process, they were surprisingly easy to make and easy to wear. If you'd like to find out more you can read my Zero Waste Block Pants Review where I detail my first time using the zero waste process.
3. The High Waisted Trousers by The Assembly Line
The High Waisted Trousers by The Assembly Line offer a more structured take on the wide leg silhouette. Sitting high on the waist, they create a flattering, elongated line and a more tailored feel.
This pattern works particularly well in structured fabrics such as cotton gabardine or denim, and can also be adapted into a Bermuda-style short — a trend that’s becoming increasingly popular for warmer months.
4. LA Jupe Culotte by Atelier Brunette
La Jupe Culotte sits somewhere between a skirt and wide leg trousers, offering volume and movement with the comfort of an elasticated waistband. The high waist and front pleats create a flattering silhouette, while the 7/8 length gives a modern, wearable finish.
This is a lovely option if you’re looking for something a little different that still fits within a wide leg aesthetic. This pattern works really well in cotton and cotton blend fabrics including the Cotton Poplins by Atelier Brunette as shown in the image above
5. Sammy Pants by Tessuti Fabrics
The Sammy Pants are a relaxed, easy-to-wear style with a wide leg shape that feels effortless and modern. Designed with comfort in mind, they offer a more casual take on wide leg trousers, making them ideal for everyday wear.
They work particularly well in softer fabrics such as linen or lightweight cottons, where the silhouette can drape naturally. I think the Sammy Pants made in the Sya Linen Viscose fabric from Atelier Brunette would look lovely.
Choosing Fabric for Wide Leg Trousers
Fabric choice plays an important role in how wide leg trousers look and feel.
• Linen and linen blends create a relaxed, breathable silhouette
• Cotton poplin offers a lighter, more casual finish
• Cotton gabardine or denim provides structure and definition
If you’re unsure where to start, take a look at our guide on How to Choose Fabrics for Dressmaking, or browse our full collection of dressmaking fabrics available to buy online in the UK.
Final Thoughts
Wide leg trousers are a timeless style that continue to evolve with fabric and proportion. Whether you prefer something relaxed and easy to wear or more structured and tailored, these patterns offer a range of options for building a modern handmade wardrobe.