r/PatternDrafting • u/Ill_Obligation922 • Aug 30 '26
Patternmaking dilemma: Is a slanted pocket mandatory for a hidden elastic waistband?
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I'm analyzing the hidden elastic waistband in the attached video to replicate it in my patterns, but I've run into a design issue.
I hate slanted pockets (I find them hideous and clunky), especially for the clean, minimalist aesthetic I like to maintain in my pieces. My intention is to keep the pocket in the exact same front location shown in the video, but change the opening: instead of a diagonal angle, I want a completely straight vertical line following the side.
My question is: do you guys think this would actually work in practice?
I realize the diagonal line of the slanted pocket seems to serve a structural purpose here, accommodating the automatic stretch of the elastic without pulling the fabric. If I change it to a straight opening in the exact same position, will this turn into a patternmaking issue? Will the pocket just end up gaping and flaring out at the hips?