Shorten Or Change Trouser Leg Styles, Inspired by the past. Post 760 by Angela Lansbury.

 I was looking at an old post on altering trouser legs (pants legs) which were too long. I had scanned down to check on any posts lacking pictures and this post popped up about shortening suggestions.

Update May 5th 2026 Trouser Leg Styles

When I looked up trouser styles in Wikipedia weeks later I found many more style from historic options. 

Public domain image from Wikipedia.

Whilst I have the scissors in my hand, and have the nerve to cut up fabric, what more can I do with trouser legs?

Slit Trouser Legs 

But that would expose my legs. Sexy, but impractical.

Balloon or Barrel Ankles

Attention-getting. Different.

Wide legs with godets (triangular insets).

Make Tabs to Shorten Trouser Legs

Like the ones on shirt sleeves. A ribbon of fabric to be sewn in below the knee. Cut the ribbon to just shorter than the fabric leg's cuff so the ribbon doesn't dangle down untidily and annoying your ankle or tripping you up. Sew a button on the outside. Cut a slit slightly larger than the button diameter for a buttonhole on the ribbon. Alternatively vice versa, a subtle slit in the fabric leg, with the button hidden inside on the ribbon. 

If you are a designer, whether world famous, making catwalk designs, or just making small runs for a new website business, or looking for fun outfits for a wedding or special occasion, plenty of ideas from the old days. Combine shapes and styles from olden times with what suits the occasion or  your fabric.

Useful Websites For Shortening Trousers (Pants)

Iron-on tape

https://www.temu.com/uk/5m-self--trousers-sticker-diy-sewing-fabric-ironing-and-cutting-free-trouser-leg-sticker-pants-shorten-sticker

Clips

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/168164696887?_skw=trousers+shortening&itmmeta

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