Honkeytonk
Badonkadonk™
Intention
In search of perfectly fitting jeans and inspired by vintage western denim, the Honkeytonk Badonkadonk™ jeans were born. The yoked front mimics designs from 80's & 90's Rocky Mountain Jeans, and the waist leaves room to breathe while maintaining a snug fit.
Design Features
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Fitted hips with a straight leg
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Waistband and beltloops
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Back patch pockets
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Front angled pockets
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Back yoke with flat felled seams
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Inspired by vintage western jeans
Process
After sewing several different pairs of pants following other creator's patterns, it was time to put my skills to the test and draft my own design from scratch. Starting with my measurements (waist, hips, rise, inseam, and outseam), and open source pattern drafting software (Seamly), I began experimenting with the software and building the pattern.
With the first draft in hand, I projected the pattern onto some extra upholstery fabric I had and constructed the first toile. What a humbling experience that was. The front and back rises were extremely unbalanced, the seat had way too much excess fabric, and the inseam and outseams twisted around the leg. A little tight though they were, the fit through the legs was actually pretty good. And with all this information, back to the drawing board I went.
Three progressively better bedsheet toiles later and I finally I felt confident cutting into the denim. And they turned out great! Not perfect...but pretty great.
Reflection
Through this process I learned that small adjustments in angles and curves can create huge changes in the result.
Overall, I'm really happy with these pants. The fit through the waist and thighs is exactly what I was going for, the seams ran straight down the leg, and I was especially pleased with how the front pockets turned out as they laid flat against the body. Personally, the rise is a little higher than I would've liked, but after a few small adjustments, I'm sure the Honkeytonk Badonkadonk™ jeans will become a staple in my wardrobe.
