Introducing the French Knicker
I'm delighted to introduce our first official pattern for September! A faithful reproduction of a true vintage gem, this French Knicker pattern is based on an original design from the early 1950s.
Unlike today’s form-fitting underwear, French knickers (also known as tap pants) are designed with a loose, airy fit - more like a half-slip than modern briefs.
Designed for non-stretch woven fabrics, the French Knicker skims the figure in lightweight materials such as crepe de chine, chiffon, satin, cotton lawn, cotton voile, or lace. You can also mix and match fabrics - try a satin centre panel with sheer lace side panels for an alluring boudoir look.
For a truly authentic 1950s/60s aesthetic, nylon tricot is also another good option - just ensure it has minimal stretch to preserve the intended fit.
I was hoping to make up some samples prior to sharing the pattern, but the month has got away from me, and I'd rather you had the pattern without photographs than delay any further!
Comments (14)
I don't know how I missed this release! It must've been buried in my 11 billion notifications I got this week.... LOL Off topic, but I had a FB group member ask if you used the same block for all your patterns, or if you started from each individual pattern and graded, so they might not be consistent? Let me know so I can answer the Q! :)
In most cases, I start from the individual pattern, and they're then graded. I do have a couple of blocks (one 1940s, one 1950s, with differing amounts of ease), which I use as a base for some patterns, but others are reproduced directly from individual original vintage patterns.
I can say, as someone who used a similar commercial pattern, in cotton, these are a godsend during heat waves. Thank you for this pattern.
Yay! I can’t wait to make this. I’ll need to start thinking about my fabric since I can’t print until Monday.
Will you be looking to release the bra pattern featured on the cover picture too please Charlotte?xx
Bra-making is currently beyond my pattern design expertise, but it's definitely on my list!
Fantastic a new wardrobe of French Knickers for Autumn 🍂
I've been wanting to do a French Knicker pattern for ages - I can't wait to experiment with lots of different variations! (after I get back from my upcoming trip, when I'll have more sewing leisure time ☺️)
I needed something good today and this just brightened my spirits! Love a good knicker pattern.
Oh I'm so happy! 💖
Oooh this is great!
I'm so glad you like it!
How perfect, I've been wanting to make tap pants for awhile now and now I've got this pattern and Gertie's! They're slightly different so I can make a nice variety. Thanks for sharing this lovely pattern ❤️
Haha yes I saw Gertie release hers as I was preparing this one - but as you say, they're different in style so they can complement each other ☺️