Style Inspiration for the Hollywood Pants

Pants silhouettes may come and go, but a classic trouser is always in style. Our Hollywood Pants pattern has a vintage vibe that wouldn't have been out of place in Katharine Hepburn's wardrobe. However, this double-pleated trouser look is also found today on designer runways and in the closets of the most fashionable women around. Read on for more style inspiration for the Hollywood Pants. 

Marlene Dietrich and Katharine Hepburn were the two movie stars of Hollywood's Golden Era that popularized not only the trouser, but the idea of women wearing pants. While both of the outfits worn below wouldn't be out of place today, they were somewhat scandalous for their time. I especially love the giant plaid pants that Katharine Hepburn has paired with a plaid coat in the photo on the right. The black top makes the bold print mix work. 

​The double pleat on a pair of trousers, especially when sewn in a drapey fabric, is nothing short of elegant. To create a look like this, make the pants in a beautiful worsted wool. 

However, you can take that elegant look and make it fun as well. Pair your trousers with a tennis shoe, as actress Emma Thompson did when she received her DBE at Buckingham Palace. For an even kickier look, roll up the trousers and pair them with some cute high tops. 

​Linens, wools, silks — there are so many lovely fabrics that you can use for these trousers. But what about denim? This street-style shot shows us how fabulous a pair of denim trousers can be. 

Don't forget the prints! Polka dot pants are always a fun look, but I love how the stripes on Jennifer Lopez's pleated pants bring attention to that detail. 

So, what are you inspired to make? Will you go elegant or sporty? Solid or bold? There are so many options! Below, Erin made her Hollywood Pants out of a soft, washed linen in sweet peas green. Gorgeous!