Bottoms

Pants, skirts, and shorts are a challenging category. It is the most problematic category to size and fit and challenged me to figure out how to work with new specialized materials. From leather, suede, denim, wool, velvet, and corduroy, this category became a learning endeavor in which I gladly accepted the challenge.

Project Highlight: Denim Jeans

The Concept

Develop stretch denim jeans within our XS, S, M, L sizing standards that feature functional five-pocket styling, zipper, button closures, belt loops, and decorative stitching details while remaining within our cost parameters.

The Challenges

The denim quality needed to have the right amount of stretch. I helped source cotton spandex qualities to ensure accurate fit and function. I aided designers with competitor research, trend analysis and by determining and sketching the technical details. After sourcing the material, we noticed the jeans fit differently in the other colorways of this style. The additional colorways either had less spandex, or the shrinkage and wash were changing the fit. To maintain fit consistency across this assortment, I created a separate size chart and specifications to allow each colorway to fit and function consistently.

I also created a new construction to fix the annoyance from pockets folding out by sourcing a pocket quality in a stretch fabric. I constructed the pockets to restrict the pocket bag from rolling out when worn. Adding a pocket extension and sewing the pocket bag into the side seam allowed for better control over the pockets staying in place when worn.

The Results

The original denim jeans transformed into multiple styles season after season. By adjusting little details such as the hem, length, crop, flare, and button front features, we could create a thriving collection of jeans for our customers. We also developed these details into our denim skirts and denim jackets. I’ve heard many times from customers around the office that these are their favorite pants, and I have to agree I wear mine weekly.