One of the easiest things to sew is an elastic waist pair of trousers. Comfortable, easy to fit, versatile. So I’ve put together a list of some different types of elastic waist pants sewing patterns for you, to make it easier to choose your favorite.
1. The Aulio pattern includes two simple options: casual shorts and classic wide-leg trousers. Both variations have a high elasticated waist with a cord casing. Sizing: XS-XXL.
Available in PDF format.
2. The Tyra trousers - culottes (cropped) or palazzo (full length). When I designed this pattern I wanted to make my perfect version of a summer flowy pair of trousers. They’re wide, but not too wide. High-waisted, relaxed fit, perfect slanted pockets. They’re designed for drapey fabrics such as viscose, but they can be made in other qualities as well, like linen, cotton, tencel. I’ve also seen beautiful examples made in corduroy!
Sizes: 32-50 & 44-62. Available in PDF & Paper.
3. The Sepia Pants + Shorts have a clever design that blends style and comfort. Functional double pockets in the front are sewn to create a floating effect, with additional topstitched pockets in the back. A traditional elastic waistband is elevated with a fluted paperbag edge and optional drawstring.
- View A features barrel leg pants ending at the ankle, shaped with darts at the knee and hem.
- View B features wide leg, full-length pants.
- View C features shorts ending at mid-thigh.
4. Ninni culottes - delightfully simple and easy elastic-waist pants! This sewing pattern comes with a generous amount of ease and handy in-seam side pockets. You can sew Ninni culotte trousers either from a knit or a woven fabric.
Available in PDF format.
A more narrow leg shape than many of the other alternatives on this list. Föat front, elasticated back waist. 2 in 1: You get a skirt pattern too! Sizes: 34-52.
VIEW A : ankle length tapered trousers. Fitted at the waistline with an elasticized waistband. Deep curved pockets. The side seam is moved to the back of the leg.
VIEW B : midi length A line skirt. Fitted at the waistline with an elasticized waistband. Deep curved pockets. The side seam is moved to the back of the skirt.
Available in PDF format.
6. The Botanic trousers pattern is a gloriously wide-legged, high-waisted, and cropped-length pair of trousers. They feature a double-pleated front, pockets, and a removable belt. The waistband sits at the natural waist and has a flat front and elastic back for comfort, no closure is needed. Sizes 34-48.
7. Hadid Couture Track Pants. This is a sewing pattern that reimagines the classic Adidas track pants into a souped-up, couture-inspired piece with a modern twist. The iconic three stripes are transformed into delicate pintucks, offering a subtle nod to sportswear while keeping your look timeless and chic.
The elasticated topstitched waistband ensures maximum comfort, while the semi-fitted cut flatters all body types. Discreet pockets are cleverly hidden in the seam of the third pintuck to maintain clean lines, and you can choose between zipped or snap button openings at the hem to showcase your shoes with ease.
Available in PDF format.
8. High Waist Pants.
This pattern is designed with a loose, flowy silhouette with wide legs, making them incredibly comfortable to wear all day long. The design includes an elastic waist with a drawstring for an easy, adjustable fit, and a stylish paper bag waist that adds a chic touch. With a wide hem and the convenience of four pockets—two in the back and two in the front—these pants are practical and fashionable. Customize your look by choosing between a cropped or full-length version, allowing you to create the perfect pair of high-waist pants that suit your style.
Elastic waist, sewn-on pockets and a belt. It's suitable for medium-weight woven and knitted fabrics. Available in 16 sizes, size 32-62. The body measurement for the seat for size 32 is 84 cm and for size 62 it is 152 cm. You will receive all sizes when purchasing this pattern.
Available in PDF format.
10. Leslie Pants. You can sew your own straight trousers using the simple trouser pattern with detailed sewing instructions. The elegant pants sewing pattern has a sporty stitched elastic waistband, side pockets and pleats and ruffles around the waist. Sizes XS-3XL.
Available in PDF format.
11. Emile barrel pants. Available with a straight or barrel leg and offered in sizes 0 to 32. Simple to sew yet far from basic, it offers an approachable introduction to trouser-making while allowing you to create a garment with a strong identity.
With its 7/8 length, straight or barrel leg, mid-rise waist in Size Range 1 and high-rise waist in Size Range 2, Emile features a clean, structured silhouette. The vertical seam running along the leg defines the design, while the pockets inserted between this seam and the side seam add both function and a distinctive graphic touch.
12. Joanne. This is a perfect pattern for shorts or a cropped wide-leg culotte with an elasticated waistband and slanted pockets. The design features thoughtful details to enhance the fit, such as a curved back seam and a slightly curved hem. The waistband has extra fabric (paper-bag waist) at the top, creating a chic yet understated look. Easy to sew and comfortable to wear, Joanne is the perfect piece for any season.
13. The Pietra Pants & Shorts are the best of both worlds; a flat front, high-waisted silhouette with the comfort of an elastic waist in the back. Featuring lengthening panels in the front with slanted hip pockets and a hidden waist stay, they are so comfortable you’ll never want to take them off.
Choose between four leg styles: a wide leg in floor-skimming or cropped length (View A), a slim and tapered leg (View B), or gently flared shorts (View C).
I hope you enjoyed this list. Which pattern will you be making next? 🌸
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Until next time,
Happy Sewing!
/Josefine
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