Friday, April 10, 2020

Testing, testing: Cashmerette Calder Shorts

Hello blog readers, long time no see!

I've been a bit distracted and busy with work during the current crisis and haven't done any garment sewing for 3 weeks or so (although I sewed over 200 fabric facing coverings!). 

However, I did find some time to take photos of my tester version of the latest pattern from Cashmerette. This pattern test ran way back in October, which seems like a lifetime away!

To be clear: I tested the Calder pattern for Cashmerette and received a copy of the pattern for free in exchange for my efforts. There have been a few changes to the pattern since testing, but pretty minor.

The Calder pattern is a wide-legged woven trouser or short. They have a flat front with an elasticized back waistband, faced in-seam pockets, and three length options. There are two fits: a dartless apple fit and a darted back pear fit. 

I'm not historically a shorts wearer, but after making my Pietra Shorts last summer, I may have turned a mental corner regarding shorts. As such, I obviously tried the shorts version of the Calders.

Based on my measurements I chose the apple fit and I *think* this is a size 16 (I can't find my notes for some reason). I'm pretty happy with the fit, but I'm curious to try the darted version to see if I can get rid of a smidge of the extra poof under the waistband and above my bum.

For fabric, I opted for some Kaufman Brussels Washer Linen from my stash for these Calder shorts. The linen/rayon blend is the perfect weight and drape for the pattern. I believe this is the O.D. green colorway, which looks much darker on the computer screen than it is in real life.

Interesting details about the Calders: the side seam sits slightly to the front, which threw me off at first, but actually makes it much easier to get your hands in the pockets. 

And the pockets: they're in-seam pockets, which I typically hate and avoid, but the method is really unique (albeit a bit complicated) and results in a nice flat pocket, anchored into the waist seam so it doesn't flop about.

To sum up: the Calder pattern is quite cute! I love all the colorful versions of the pants I've seen so far, so I'm looking forward to trying the trouser view!


  1. They look great. Did you make any alterations to the fit? Im looking at my pattern and it seems SO wide in the leg at thigh height. I have ordered viscose twill for mine.

    1. Thanks, Maggie. No alterations to fit. They are pretty wide legged, but I think that's intentional.

  2. Have a couple of questions, if you don't mind?
    Are there extensions in the side seams where the pockets go? And would you say the bottom of the crotch curve is similar in front to back width, to the Skulthorpe pant?

  3. I was looking for someone who did the shorts! Thank you! Will have to get the pattern.

  4. Oh Meg! You look lovely in these Calder Shorts! And that colour is perfect.