for London Frocktails 2026: I really enjoyed the creative process of making these trousers. I had an initial idea in mind and had collected inspiration pictures over the past few months. I sourced the cotton pinstripe fabric on a trip to Japan, but my ideas evolved when I saw some Hakama inspired trousers and wanted to make my own take on them. The Closet Core Mitchell trousers, a wide leg pattern I had made before was my starting point. I drafted a new left leg with more volume to create 3 pleats and a wrap to the right side. This was secured with a black kilt pin. A side pocket on the leg with ribbon detail was made, reminiscent of 90s parachute pants, giving a splash of colour. This was matched by the reverse welt pockets lined in red on the back (you can find instructions for this on the Closet Core blog - a Ginger Jean hack) I chose a cropped length and added chain and charm details inspired by seeing a reel of Ann Ringstrand’s Winterfell skirt. Finished with my own Black Rebel Sewing Machine Club label on the back and a London Frocktails one inside. The top is the Stitch Witch patterns Willa top in a cotton with ribbons that match those on the trousers. It took a while to work out what to pair the trousers with but this worked beautifully. Nike Air rift trainers completed the look and were super comfy.
