Inspired by the lovely Suzy, @Sewing_in_spain, I decided to try the Tessuti Bailee Shorts, and decided to make them before we left on our holiday. They were a very quick make, although I had to do some repairs of my own making .

The shorts are described as “a pull-on flared style featuring a wide elasticised waistband, in-seam side pockets, side splits and hem facing. Loose, comfortable and cool, they’re perfect for casual, resort or sleep wear”.

I had a very small tablecloth that had belonged to my mother. I assume that it was used for afternoon tea, as that corresponds best to the size. I am slightly disappointed that there wasn’t much embroidery on the tablecloth, but it made for a good trial.

I hunted for a photo of the tablecloth before I started, but of course I didn’t take one. The best I could do was this, where some of the fabric caught in the overlocker, so careless. I had actually forgotten that I did this and the mend must be ok because I couldn’t see it on the finished shorts. From memory I appliquéd a tiny piece of the left over embroidery over it.

I made a few modifications to the shorts so I could use the tablecloth better. I used the scalloped edge as the hem, which I was nervous about. I think the weight of the faced hem would improve the look, but these will be very light in the summer. I also didn’t have the split in the hem as I didn’t think it was necessary. Of course, I misplaced a couple of the flowers, but it’s not too bad.

They look quite good with my Tessuti Judy top, and I think this is a combination I might wear a lot in the summer.

I teamed it with this pink woven tee, the pattern for which I’ve forgotten. I do remember that I dyed it with avocado, which oxidised over time, so it’s been overdyed with leftover red dye. I should have pressed this top before I took photos, but I was in a hurry. It’s been in a drawer over winter.

As always, I don’t fill them out very well at the back, but I think I’ll modify the pattern a little for a better fit next time.

I think I might find the embroidery scraps and appliqué them over some of the blank parts. I shall be very particular with placement!

I am pretty pleased with these shorts. They are light and airy and the pockets are great. There will be more made over the summer, and I might even make them properly with the faced hem!